Sambalpur: The beneficiaries under various pension schemes of the government received Rs 300 for buying blankets in Maneswar of Sambalpur district when the winter season is almost over.
“The winter is all set to be over. At a time when we need fans, we are being given money to buy blankets,” said some beneficiaries.
Elderly persons, widows and physically challenged persons are receiving pensions from the state government. The beneficiaries below 60 years of age were earlier getting Rs 300 each as pension. Later their pension has been hiked to Rs 500. Similarly, those who are above 60 years of age are now getting Rs 700 each as against an earlier amount of Rs 500.
Besides, the government gives an extra amount along with regular pension — for buying umbrellas in rainy season, shoes and umbrellas in summer and blankets for winter.
But the beneficiaries were in for a surprise while they received money for blankets when the winter season is almost over.
“Had the money been distributed at the beginning of the winter, it would have considerably helpful for us,” many beneficiaries pointed out.
Some others alleged, “The money should have been distributed in the month of September. Instead of that, the money is being distributed now. With not much cold now for using a blanket, the beneficiaries would sure use the money for other purposes.”
However, some viewed it as a move to woo the voters ahead of the upcoming general elections.
They alleged that it might be a trick of the government to attract voters.
Some beneficiaries alleged that there was a similar delay in distributing the money during summer and rainy seasons as well.
The Sambalpur Municipal Corporation officials said the money could not be distributed earlier because the offices remained closed due to bandh over setting up of a High Court bench.
Aparna Padhy, an SMC official, said, “We had problems in finalising the list of beneficiaries as the offices were closed. The delay occurred because the money meant for blankets reached us only this month.”
PNN