Himachal cabinet approves Orphan-widow cess, Pension reforms

Shimla, Jan 19,

Placing social security and welfare delivery at the centre of governance, the Himachal Pradesh Cabinet on Monday approved the promulgation of an Ordinance to levy an ‘Orphan and Widow Cess’ on petrol and high-speed diesel at the point of first sale in the state.
The cess however, the government clarified, will be non-burdensome for consumers, while ensuring a dedicated and sustainable funding source for welfare schemes meant for orphans and widows—two of the most vulnerable sections of society.
In another welfare-centric move, the Cabinet decided to amend the Social Security (Pension and Allowance) Rules, 2010, ensuring time-bound disbursal of pensions to beneficiaries. Delays in pension payments have long been a grievance among elderly and dependent beneficiaries across the state.
The Cabinet also gave in-principle approval to take over the Institute for Children with Special Abilities at Dhalli, Shimla, signalling enhanced state responsibility towards specialised care institutions.
Additionally, approval was granted for Standard Operating Procedures and guidelines for recruitment of crèche workers and helpers, aimed at improving early childcare services and women’s workforce participation.

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