In 2015, during a visit to Jammu and Kashmir, the Prime Minister announced a special development package aimed at offering a helping hand to families displaced from Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Chhamb. This initiative, known as the Central Assistance for One-Time Settlement of Displaced Families, aimed to provide financial assistance to these families who had been uprooted from their homes due to conflict.
Understanding the Displacements: A Legacy of Partition and War
The partition of India in 1947 led to a mass exodus of people across borders. Many families from Jammu and Kashmir, residing in areas that became part of Pakistan, were forced to flee their homes due to violence and persecution. These families settled in different parts of Jammu and Kashmir, carrying the scars of displacement.
Similarly, the Chhamb sector of Jammu and Kashmir witnessed conflicts in 1965 and 1971. These wars led to further displacement of families residing in the border areas. The Prime Minister’s development package acknowledged the long-term struggles faced by these families and aimed to offer some financial support for their rehabilitation.
The Package Explained: A Much-Needed Boost
The Central Assistance for One-Time Settlement offered a one-time financial assistance of Rs. 5,49,692/- per eligible family. This significant sum was distributed through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to ensure transparency and reach the beneficiaries directly. Additionally, the Jammu and Kashmir government contributed a state share of Rs. 308/- per family, further bolstering the support system.
The financial assistance provided under the scheme was intended to help displaced families meet various needs. It could be used for purposes like:
- Housing: For families living in temporary shelters or inadequate housing, the funds could be used for repairs, renovations, or even down payments on new homes.
- Education: The financial aid could be a game-changer for families struggling to afford education for their children. It could be used for school fees, books, and other educational expenses.
- Livelihood: For some families, the displacement might have hampered their ability to earn a living. The financial assistance could be a crucial starting point for establishing new businesses or pursuing skill development opportunities.
- Medical Care: The funds could also be used to meet the medical needs of families, especially for those with chronic illnesses or requiring urgent medical attention.
The Application Process and Important Dates
The scheme was initially announced in 2015, with a deadline for applications set for March 31, 2022. Recognizing the challenges faced by some families in applying on time, the Jammu and Kashmir government extended the deadline to March 31, 2024. This extension ensured that a larger number of eligible families could benefit from the financial assistance.
The application process for the scheme was handled by the Jammu and Kashmir government. Families were required to submit credible documents proving their displacement status and residence in the state. The specific documents required and the application procedure might have varied slightly depending on the specific district or region.
It’s important to note that as of today, March 31, 2024, the application window for the scheme has closed.
A Step Forward, But the Journey Continues
The Prime Minister’s Development Package for PoK and Chhamb families was a significant initiative aimed at providing financial support for their rehabilitation. While the one-time assistance offered a much-needed boost, the long-term challenges faced by these families remain.
There’s a need for continued efforts to ensure their complete integration into society. This could involve providing access to better education and employment opportunities, as well as promoting social inclusion programs that help them rebuild their lives and communities.
The Prime Minister’s development package served as a starting point, but the journey towards a brighter future for displaced families continues.
