The financial aid scheme for over 5,000 Hindu and Sikh families who migrated to India from Pakistan's West Punjab after the 1947 partition has been facing hurdles since its launch in 2018. The scheme, which aims to provide ₹5.5 lakh per family, has only been received by 903 families so far. The Jammu and Kashmir administration conducted special camps to help Dalit families, who make up 70% of the eligible families, apply for the grant. However, the claims have been stuck due to the lack of documents such as refugee cards.

 

Moreover, the local administration has not been forthcoming in processing the claims, with officials demanding a no-objection certificate even from distant relatives. As a result, some families have received only ₹22,000 instead of the full amount. Corruption has also been an issue, with revenue officials demanding bribes before clearing the files.

 

The government needs to take immediate action to ensure that the scheme reaches all the eligible families and that the funds are not misused. This includes addressing the lack of documentation, streamlining the application process, and cracking down on corruption. It is important to provide financial assistance to these refugees who have been living in India for over 75 years and have faced many hardships. Reference source: TH

 

UPSC Main Exam Question

 

What are the challenges faced by the Central government's financial assistance scheme for West Pakistan refugees and what steps can be taken to ensure its smooth implementation?

 

Answer: The Central government's financial assistance scheme for West Pakistan refugees has faced numerous challenges since its sanction in 2018. Lack of documents such as refugee cards and no-objection certificates from distant relatives, tepid response from families, and corruption have all contributed to the slow implementation of the scheme. Only 903 out of 5,764 eligible families have received the funds so far.

 

To ensure the smooth implementation of the scheme, the government can take several steps. Firstly, it can conduct special camps to help families apply for the grant and ensure that all necessary documents are in place. Secondly, it can set up a dedicated team to verify the records and claims made by the families and ensure that there is no corruption in the process. Thirdly, it can increase awareness about the scheme and its benefits among the eligible families to encourage them to come forward and apply for the grant. Lastly, the government can consider increasing the amount of financial assistance provided to the families to make it more attractive and meaningful for them.

 

In conclusion, while the financial assistance scheme for West Pakistan refugees is a step in the right direction, there are several challenges that need to be addressed to ensure its successful implementation. By taking the necessary steps, the government can ensure that the scheme reaches all eligible families and provides the support they need.