Bal Ashrams scheme aims to create a child-labor-free society by providing quality education, shelter, and care to orphans and destitute children. These government-funded institutions offer free schooling, boarding, and access to recreational and medical facilities for eligible children in Jammu and Kashmir.
Key Benefits
- Education: Free schooling for children residing in the Ashrams.
- Housing: Free boarding and lodging facilities.
- Clothing and Bedding: Provided at no cost.
- Recreation: Access to recreational materials.
- Medical Assistance: Free medicines and healthcare support.
Eligibility Criteria
- Citizenship: The applicant must be an Indian citizen.
- Residency: The child must be a permanent resident of Jammu and Kashmir (Domicile Certificate required).
- Beneficiary:
- The child must be an orphan or a destitute.
- The child should not already be receiving benefits under this scheme.
- Applicant: The child’s guardian or a social worker may apply on their behalf.
Application Process
Offline Steps
- Form Collection: Visit the District Social Welfare Office (DSWO) to collect the application form.
- Fill Application: Complete the form with required details, affix a signed passport-sized photo, and attach all necessary documents.
- Submission: Submit the filled application form to the DSWO.
- Acknowledgment: Obtain a receipt or acknowledgment from the office for submission confirmation.
Post-Submission Steps
- The DSWO forwards eligible applications to the District Level Sanctioning Committee.
- Admissions or discharges are approved by the District Social Welfare Officer in coordination with the Deputy Director of Administration, Directorate of Social Welfare.
Documents Required
- Domicile Certificate (of Jammu & Kashmir).
- Aadhaar Card.
- Passport-Sized Photographs (3, signed across).
- Death Certificate of Parents (if the child is an orphan).
- Bank Details: Bank account information of the guardian or applicant.
- Affidavit of Guardianship (if applicable).
- Additional documents as requested by the Social Welfare Office.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the purpose of Bal Ashrams?
To provide education, shelter, and care to orphans and destitute children in Jammu & Kashmir. - Who can apply for this scheme?
A guardian or social worker can apply on behalf of an eligible child. - What facilities are offered?
Free education, boarding, clothing, recreational materials, and medicines. - Is education compulsory in Bal Ashrams?
Yes, all children residing in Bal Ashrams must attend school. - How many Bal Ashrams are there in Jammu & Kashmir?
There are over 12 orphanages, mostly in Srinagar, established under this scheme. - Can children from neighboring states apply?
No, only permanent residents of Jammu and Kashmir are eligible. - Is there any application fee?
No, the scheme is free of cost. - Where can I check the status of my application?
Contact the District Social Welfare Officer (DSWO).
Sources and References
- Guidelines: Provided by the Department of Social Welfare, Jammu & Kashmir.
- Contact Details: Access the list of DSWOs and superintendents for more information.
- Website: Visit the official Social Welfare Department website for updates.