Soumayashree Mishra 
The provision of winter aid to the poor was ordered by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik during a review meeting on the state’s cold wave situation. Naveen emphasised the importance of keeping the poor, particularly the elderly, safe during this season.
The Chief Minister has directed that all beneficiaries receive Rs 300 in winter aid in order to purchase blankets by December. The state government has allocated Rs 146 crore to benefit over 48 lakh beneficiaries under the Madhubabu Pension Yojana and the National Pension Yojana (NSAP).
Chief Minister directed the Panchayati Raj Department, the Urban Development Department, the District Collector, and municipal authorities to take immediate action to ensure that no soul is left alone or in a helpless situation during the cold winter nights.
The state has opened 855 traveller shelters so far. Wherever possible, panchayat offices and school buildings will be used as night shelters. On November 30 and December 1, steps will be taken to ensure that all beneficiaries receive this assistance.
