sukhu-launches-e-kalyan-portal-to-ease-pension-applications

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Monday launched the E-Kalyan Portal of the Department for Empowerment of Scheduled Castes, Other Backward Classes, Minorities and Specially-Abled (ESOMSA) in Shimla.

Developed under the Him-Parivar portal, the E-Kalyan Portal will allow eligible residents to apply online for various pension schemes run by the Directorate of ESOMSA.

Speaking at the launch event, Chief Minister Sukhu emphasised that providing social security pensions to the needy remains a top priority for his government. He reaffirmed the state government's commitment to functioning as a true welfare state.

The Chief Minister highlighted that eight pension schemes were currently operational in the state to benefit the vulnerable sections of the society. He said Rs 1,410 crore was spent on these schemes during last financial year, benefitting 8,24,928 individuals.

He said an additional 37,000 beneficiaries will be included under the social security pension schemes during the current financial year on which additional Rs 67 crore would be incurred.

It was also shared that the E-Kalyan Portal is integrated with key databases, including Him Bhoomi, Him Parivar, Aadhaar, and PDS ration cards, ensuring a seamless verification and application process for beneficiaries.

Applicants can apply directly or through Lokmitra Kendras by visiting https://himparivar.hp.gov.in/ekalyan. This initiative will discourage the applicants to visit government offices for certification or submission of applications.

Updates regarding application errors, verification and approvals will be sent digitally, allowing applicants to track their applications from home. Director of Digital Technologies and Governance Nipun Jindal gave a detailed presentation of the portal.

Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Dhani Ram Shandil, Industries Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan, PWD Minister Vikramaditya Singh, Deputy Chairman State Planning Board Bhawani Singh Pathania, MLA Sanjay Awasthi, Secretaries Ashish Singhmar and Rakhil Kahlon, Director, ESOMSA Kiran Bhadana, Special Secretary to the Chief Minister Dr Harish Gajju, Additional Director Rajeev Sharma and other senior officers were also present on the occasion.