SRINAGAR: A delay in the release of the monthly old-age pension has left thousands of elderly beneficiaries across Kashmir anxious, with many saying they rely solely on this small amount to meet their daily needs.
For 72-year-old Fatima Begum from Srinagar, the monthly pension of Rs 1,000 is her only means of buying medicines and essentials. “I keep waiting every month for this money. When it doesn’t come on time, I have to borrow from neighbours,” she said, with trembling hands and moist eyes.
Several other elderly citizens echoed similar distress, saying the pension is their only financial support amid rising prices and mounting health challenges.
When contacted, an official from the Social Welfare Department, Kashmir, said that the delay was due to the year-end financial load and the large volume of transactions being processed.
“There is a lot of fund flow at the year-end, and this is a big amount running into crores. Payments have already been made to some beneficiaries, and the remaining ones will be cleared within the next two to three days,” the official said.
However, the delay has caused emotional distress among the elderly, especially those without family support. “For the government, it might just be a file delay, but for people like us, it is a matter of daily survival,” said Ghulam Mohammad, 78, from Baramulla.
As the year draws to a close, many beneficiaries are hoping the promised disbursement comes soon, bringing a sigh of relief and a little warmth in the harsh winter. (KNO)
