The Ministry for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation informs all recipients of its four main social protection programs that their allowances can now be withdrawn.
The Ministry had arranged to clear the monthly allowance three days earlier than usual in order for beneficiaries to prepare for Diwali before the usual payment date.
The Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation Rosy Akbar today confirmed that the Department of Social Welfare made a conscious effort to ensure processes were fast tracked in order to make the early payments possible. "We want our recipients to enjoy their Diwali like everyone else. The usual payment is released after the 5th of each month, which would have fallen after Diwali this year. We didn't want our recipients to be left out and we are happy that we were able to cater to their needs before the festival."
Minister Akbar also emphasized the need to celebrate the festival responsibly. "Fireworks are almost an integral part of Diwali celebrations. It certainly increases the fun quotient but not for everyone. Our elderly and sick members of the family, including many of our recipients may not enjoy fireworks as much. Recently we have also seen an increase in fire cases and I had just met with 7 families on Monday who lost everything in a blaze just before Diwali. It is therefore, my humble ask, that we be mindful while using fireworks. Ensure it's used safely and doesn't harm anyone. Also in the spirit of Diwali I ask that we share with the less fortunate."
Minister Akbar also highlighted that animals must be taken care of during the festival. "Our fur babies are also family and very much part of our communities. Let's not forget that they are very sensitive to loud noises; so please keep them indoors and safe as much as possible,” she said.
Food vouchers are available from the first of every month, while monthly allowances will revert to usual payment dates from next month.