During a review meeting of the Social Welfare Department, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami directed that all state schemes be formulated with the requirements of the next 25 years in mind. He instructed officials to integrate the schemes in such a way that they serve as a ‘best practice’ model for the country.
Key decisions and announcements:
• Simplification of pension: The Chief Minister directed that eligible citizens should automatically receive old-age pension benefits upon attaining the age of 60, sparing them from navigating complex procedures.
• Hostel construction: Instructions were issued to ensure the completion of the ‘Babu Jagjivan Ram Hostels’—currently under construction in Doiwala (Dehradun), Painus (Nainital), and Someshwar (Almora)—by October 2026 without fail.
• DBT payments: The Chief Minister transferred pension amounts for June 2026 directly into the accounts of 9.80 lakh beneficiaries via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). A total sum of ₹145.42 crore was released under this head.
The Chief Minister emphasized that the government is committed to ensuring dignity and security for the person standing at the very last rung of society. He also laid special emphasis on financial discipline and the effective utilization of resources in construction projects. Cabinet Minister Khajan Das and senior officials were present at the meeting.
