Phulbani: For a 62-year-old woman in Odisha’s tribal-dominated Kandhamal district, old age has brought loneliness, poor eyesight and a life of hardship. But what has made her struggle even more difficult is something as basic as an Aadhaar card.
The woman, from Kirabadi village under Gresingia panchayat in G. Udayagiri block, has reportedly been unable to access various government schemes because she does not have an Aadhaar card.
Unmarried and with no one to depend on in her old age, she is currently living with her younger brother in a broken thatched hut. Her eyesight has also deteriorated with age, adding to her difficulties.
The woman reportedly visited the G. Udayagiri block office several times in an attempt to obtain an Aadhaar card. However, her efforts remained unsuccessful because of biometric-related problems.
Without the required Aadhaar identification, she has been left out of several government welfare benefits meant to provide support to people in need. The issue came to light after which the Sarpanch of Gresingia Panchayat visited the elderly woman and took note of her situation.
The Sarpanch has assured her that efforts will be made to ensure she receives all eligible government facilities and benefits.
Her situation brings to the fore the difficulties faced by vulnerable people when access to essential welfare becomes dependent on documentation and biometric verification.