Chairs Review Meeting on Performance of Govt.-Funded NGOs in Jammu Division
JAMMU, DEC 03: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare, and Education, Sakeena Itoo, chaired a meeting to assess the performance of government-funded NGOs operating in Jammu division. The session aimed at evaluating their impact on marginalized communities and addressing challenges in their operations.
The meeting was attended by Commissioner Secretary, Social Welfare Department (SWD), Sheetal Nanda; Director Social Welfare Jammu, Rupesh Kumar; Director Finance SWD, senior officers of the department, District Social Welfare Officers (DSWOs), and representatives from various NGOs, including Red Cross Home, SoS Children’s Village of India, Balgrana Charitable Home, Louise Braille Memorial Residential School, Ved Mandir, and others.
Sakeena Itoo underlined the critical role of NGOs in addressing the needs of vulnerable groups, such as old-age individuals, differently-abled children, destitute children, and economically weaker sections. “Government-funded NGOs play a vital role in addressing the needs of the destitute community. It is essential they operate with maximal accountability to ensure proper utilization of funds and resources,” she said.
The Minister emphasized the importance of transparency, efficiency, and accountability in the operations of NGOs receiving government grants. She directed the establishment of robust monitoring mechanisms to ensure that funds are effectively utilized to meet the welfare, education, and healthcare needs of the beneficiaries.
She further urged NGOs to focus on skill development programs for students in their institutions to enhance their employability. Additionally, she called for increased public awareness about the services provided by these organizations to encourage families to utilize these facilities for their children’s betterment.
To strengthen NGO operations, Sakeena Itoo directed the Commissioner Secretary to nominate a dedicated Nodal Officer for grievance redressal and ensure regular monitoring and evaluation of NGO activities. She also mandated monthly progress and activity reports from the organizations to maintain accountability and compliance with government regulations.
During the meeting, representatives from the attending NGOs briefed the Minister about their activities, challenges, and services. The discussions also explored strategies to enhance collaboration between the government and NGOs to improve welfare initiatives for the destitute community.
“Our aim is to empower these organizations to bring positive change at the ground level,” Sakeena Itoo concluded, reiterating her commitment to supporting NGOs in their mission to uplift marginalized communities.
