The Government of Azad Jammu and Kashmir has launched a Social Protection Program for the welfare of vulnerable individuals in society. Under this program, such widows/divorced women, orphans, differently abled persons, transgender individuals, and elderly persons aged 65 years or above who lack adequate means of support are eligible to be included. Following individuals are eligible for assistance:
(i) Widows: Women who are alone and neither they nor their dependents or those they are residing with, have any means of livelihood that can fulfill their basic needs.
(ii) Orphans: Boys and girls under the age of 21 who neither they, nor their family members or those they are residing with, have any means of livelihood that can fulfill their basic needs.
(iii) Differently Abled Persons: Individuals who are mentally or physically disabled and are unable to earn a living. Their disability certificate must be issued by the Social Welfare Department based on recommendations from the medical board. If they do not already possess a certificate, they must provide the required certificate within one month.
(iv) Transgender Individuals: Those certified by the medical board as being unable to maintain a minimum standard of living.
(v) Divorced Women: Women who are alone and neither they, nor their dependents or those they are residing with, have any means of livelihood that can fulfill their basic needs.
(vi) Elderly Citizens: Individuals aged 65 years or above who have been neglected or abandoned without any reasonable means of income or who are dependent on other members of society for their livelihood or those they are residing with, lack sufficient means of livelihood.
Terms & Conditions
(i) The applicant must be a State resident and have a permanent residence in the relevant district.
(ii) The application must be verified by a gazetted officer or the Chairman of the District Council/Municipal Corporation/Municipal Committee/Union Council/Town Committee.
(iii) If the applicant is receiving financial assistance from any other program, it must be mentioned.
(iv) Providing false information or misrepresentation during verification is punishable under Section 177 of the Azad Penal Code, which carries a penalty of imprisonment and a fine.