- Demand increased allowances, retirement benefits, pension reforms
- Pay tribute to late founder Sampath Prakash
SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Pensioners Welfare Federation (JKPWF) and Senior Citizens Civil Society (SCCS) convened a crucial district-level meeting at Vikar House under the leadership of District President Haji Abdul Gani Parray. The gathering aimed to review pressing issues faced by senior citizens and retired government employees across the Union Territory.
The meeting, held at 11 am, was attended by prominent office bearers including Senior Vice President Aftab Nahvi, Voice President Ghulam Nabi Khanyari, Secretary Nazir Ahmad Beigh, Publicity Secretary Nissar Ahmad Tarfroosh, and other members. The session was conducted under the guidance of the late Sampath Prakash, founder of the federation, who was a renowned national trade union leader.
During the proceedings, the committee conducted a comprehensive review of challenges confronting senior citizens and retirees, emphasizing urgent needs for government intervention. Key issues discussed included the merger of Dearness Allowance (DA) with pensions and salaries, which is seen as vital for ensuring financial stability for retirees.
Participants strongly advocated for an increase in medical allowance from Rs 300 to Rs 1,000, aligning with the allowances granted in Ladakh. They also highlighted the plight of recently retired and VRS pensioners from the J&K Handicrafts (S&E) Corporation and Jammu and Kashmir Industries Ltd., urging the government to release unpaid emoluments and retirement benefits, as many retirees are facing severe financial distress.
Furthermore, the committee called for the implementation of a revised recovery period in the calculation of commuted pensions, proposing a reduction from 180 months to 128 months to benefit pensioners. They also demanded the implementation of additional pension benefits for senior citizens, including 5% increase after age 65, 10% increase after age 70 and 15% increase after age 75.
The meeting was marked by a heartfelt tribute to the late Sampath Prakash Ji, recognizing his contributions to workers’ and pensioners’ welfare.
Haji Abdul Gani Parray emphasized the need for urgent government action on these issues, reiterating the federation’s commitment to advocating for the rights and welfare of senior citizens across Jammu and Kashmir.