Nuapada: Even as several schemes have been launched by the Central and state government for the benefit of the poor, often, those who are in dire need of the welfare programmes are left out.
Late Daitari Nag’s family in Gambhariguda village under Sinapali block in Nuapada district is a case in point.
Once, it was a happy family comprising Daitari Nag, his wife Bati, and two minor children who all lived in a thatched hut. With no farmland, he worked as a daily wager and eked out a living. Everything was going on well until one day Daitari complained of illness two years ago.
Upon diagnosis, he was found to have some Kidney-related problem. Bati took him to Khariar Government Hospital and then to Nuapada District Headquarters Hospital (DHH) and VSS Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (VIMSAR), Burla.
In the process of getting her husband treated, she sold away whatever valuables they had. Yet, the money fell short of meeting the cost of best medical facilities. And in her presence, Daitari breathed his last.
Daitari’s demise had brought his family onto the street. With no help from any quarter, it became too difficult for Bati to feed her two children, let alone herself.
If a family loses its bread winner, Social Security and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities Department gives Rs 20,000 to the family. The hapless family is yet to receive this financial assistance. Not only this but also other benefits that she should have got are still eluding her. She is not getting even her widow pension, despite running from pillar to post.
Locals, sympathetic of her plight, demanded the administration to provide help to her children.
When contacted, Sinapali Block Development Officer (BDO) Surendra Meher said, “I will personally look into the matter and take steps to provide her with whatever possible help she requires.”
PNN
