In a significant move aimed at extending support to Kashmiri migrant families residing in the capital city, Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena announced on Wednesday the approval of a substantial increase in the Adhoc Monthly Relief (AMR) amount. Previously set at Rs 10,000 per month, the AMR amount for these families has now been elevated to Rs 27,000 per month.
Additionally, the Lieutenant Governor authorized the bifurcation of Kashmiri Migrant Cards issued by the Delhi government. This will allow adult and married children of migrants to obtain their own cards, making them eligible for AMR as separate units. Furthermore, any births within the migrant family will result in the addition of new members, while the unfortunate event of a member’s passing will lead to their removal from the beneficiary list. Notably, non-migrant women who marry into a migrant family will also be considered part of the Kashmiri migrant family.
According to officials from the L-G House, this revision in eligibility criteria will extend the coverage to approximately 70% more beneficiaries. This increase in AMR comes after 16 years, with the last update dating back to 2007 when it was raised from Rs 5,000 per month to Rs 10,000 per month.
It is essential to note that Aadhaar seeding of data for eligible family members is now a mandatory requirement. Furthermore, the disbursement of relief to migrants will be carried out exclusively through the Aadhaar Payment Bridge System/PFMS, following the existing regulations.
AMR is a crucial lifeline provided to Jammu and Kashmir migrants under the Security Related Expenditure (Relief & Rehabilitation) program, initiated by the Central Government in 1989-90. This initiative aims to support individuals and families who were displaced from their homes in Kashmir during the period of militancy.
In the city of Delhi, AMR is extended to migrant families registered by the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD) during the years 1990-93. Approximately 2,000 families currently receive AMR, which is distributed at a rate of Rs 3,250 per person per month. This amount comprises Rs 1,000 from the Delhi government and Rs 2,250 from the Central Government, with a maximum of four individuals being covered per family.
The decision to substantially increase the AMR amount is a significant step towards providing better living conditions and support for Kashmiri migrant families in Delhi. It reflects the government’s commitment to addressing the needs of vulnerable communities and ensuring their well-being, particularly in challenging circumstances. The move has been well-received by the migrant population and underscores the importance of continuous efforts to provide relief and assistance to those who require it the most.