Agartala, Oct 13 — Power Minister Ratan Lal Nath on Monday lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s unwavering commitment to the upliftment and empowerment of women and Divyangjan, highlighting the government’s numerous welfare initiatives aimed at inclusive development.
Speaking at the Block Level Observation of the 8th *Poshan Maah* and during the distribution of sanction orders to eligible persons with intellectual disabilities under the Mohanpur Block, the Minister said that the Prime Minister’s vision is to strengthen every section of society — including youth, farmers, women, and the poor — to build a stronger nation.
“Our Prime Minister has given the slogan *Swasth Naari, Sashakt Parivar*. If women are healthy, educated, and empowered, the family and the nation will progress. Today, land and houses are being registered in women’s names because mothers are the root of every home,” Nath said, while handing over sanction orders to 15 beneficiaries.
The Minister informed that the state government is currently providing **35 types of social allowances** benefiting **3.98 lakh people**. “Out of these, three types are funded jointly by the Centre and the State, while the rest are entirely state-funded. The annual expenditure has increased from ₹310 crore before 2018 to ₹830 crore at present,” he said.
Highlighting the state’s support for persons with disabilities, Nath mentioned the **Chief Minister’s Scheme for Persons with Intellectual Disabilities**, under which over 60% of Divyangjan with intellectual disabilities, mental illness, or cerebral palsy will receive monthly financial aid of ₹5,000. The scheme, launched on September 27, 2025, will initially benefit **891 people**, with the amount being directly credited to their bank accounts.
Explaining the significance of the term *Divyangjan*, Nath said it reflects respect and dignity for people with disabilities, replacing older, insensitive terms to foster inclusivity in society.
