Eramam
Kuttur Grama Panchayat

Key Responsibilities of the Committee:

The Welfare Standing Committee is one of the most significant standing committees in Kerala's Grama Panchayats, holding great humanitarian and social importance. This committee is responsible for implementing schemes aimed at the welfare and upliftment of marginalized groups, the economically disadvantaged, women, children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities.

Key details regarding this committee are provided below:

1. Composition and Chairperson

Chairperson: The Chairperson is elected by the committee members from among themselves.

Members: The committee comprises a specific number of ward members elected from the Panchayat governing body.

2. Key Responsibilities and Powers

To ensure the welfare of various sections of society, the committee operates in the following areas:

a) Welfare of Vulnerable Sections

SC/ST Development: Planning and implementing special sub-plans (SCP/TSP) for housing, education, and employment for Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST).

Welfare of the Elderly: Establishing senior citizens' clubs and day-care centers for the elderly, and ensuring they receive necessary medical assistance. Welfare of Persons with Disabilities: Coordinate scholarships, the distribution of assistive devices (such as wheelchairs and hearing aids), and self-employment schemes for persons with disabilities.

b) Social Security Pensions

Ensure that various social security pensions—such as old-age pensions, widow pensions, disability pensions, and agricultural worker pensions—reach eligible beneficiaries.

Scrutinize new pension applications and grant approval based on eligibility criteria.

c) Women and Child Development

Support Kudumbashree activities aimed at the economic self-reliance of women.

Oversee the functioning of vigilance committees established to prevent violence against women and children.

Rehabilitate destitute families through initiatives like the 'Agathirahitha Kerala' (Destitute-free Kerala) project.

d) Poverty Alleviation

Closely monitor the BPL (Below Poverty Line) lists and 'Ashraya' schemes within the Panchayat's jurisdiction.

Play a pivotal role in selecting beneficiaries for housing schemes like the LIFE Mission, which provides homes to the homeless. 3. Significance

The Welfare Standing Committee acts as the "conscience of the Panchayat," ensuring that the benefits of development reach even the most marginalized sections of society. This committee plays a pivotal role in building a just and equitable local community.