Poriem– Poriem MLA Dr. Deviya Rane on Thursday expressed gratitude to the state government on the floor of the House for steps taken in the areas of heritage conservation, welfare of persons with disabilities, and improvements in social welfare schemes.
Speaking during the discussion on Demands for Grants, Dr. Rane thanked State Minister for Archaeology Subhash Phaldessai for declaring three historically significant sites in Sattari taluka as protected monuments. These include Nanus Fort, the ancient rock carvings at Mauxi, and the ancestral house of Krantiveer Deepaji Rane at Kumbarkhand.
“These sites hold immense cultural and historical value for Goa and Sattari in particular. The notification will ensure their preservation for future generations,” she said.
Highlighting efforts made towards empowerment of persons with disabilities, Dr. Rane appreciated the organisation of assessment camps under the Assistance to Disabled Persons for Purchase/Fitting of Aids and Appliances (ADIP) Scheme in all talukas of the state. She said that following her request during the last Monsoon Assembly Session, an assessment camp was held in Sattari on May 30 this year.
“A total of 150 persons with disabilities were identified as eligible to receive aids and appliances such as hearing aids, wheelchairs, tricycles, and walkers. Their applications were accepted on the spot, making the process easier and more accessible,” she informed the House.
Dr. Rane also welcomed the government’s move to resolve a long-pending issue concerning widow pensions under the Dayanand Social Security Scheme (DSSS). Earlier, she noted, widows receiving Rs 2,500 per month saw their pension amount reduced to Rs 2,000 once they attained the age of 60 and were categorised as senior citizens.
“With the recent revision, widows above the age of 60 will continue to receive Rs 2,500 per month. This is a step in the right direction to ensure dignity and financial stability for elderly women,” she said.
