OTV impact: Elderly woman receives government aid in Subarnapur

A wave of support came for Bilas Merli, a 70-year-old woman from Birmaharajpur in Subarnapur district, following a news broadcast on Odisha Television Network (OTV).

Also Read: OTV impact: Jumadang residents to get Odisha govt schemes, says Malkangiri admin

The report, which was aired on the regional news channel, highlighted Bilas's struggles and underscored the powerful influence of media in effecting real-world change.

Septuagenarian had been crawling to move

Following the broadcast, officials from the local block administration responded on Monday by providing Bilas with a tricycle to improve her mobility. Prior to this, the septuagenarian had been navigating the streets by crawling, a challenging task given her age.

Bilas has been living without a permanent house and was previously receiving a government pension of Rs 350. However, this has now been increased to Rs 1,000 per month, which marks a significant improvement in her financial condition.

Additionally, the local authorities have pledged to expedite the process of securing a pucca house for her. Bilas expressed her gratitude and hope that the increased pension amount will be sustained.

When contacted, Birmaharajpur Additional Block Development Officer (ABDO) stated that they are committed to ensuring Bilas is able to access other government benefits, which will further enhance her living conditions.

“News was broadcast on OTV about a helpless elderly woman, Bilas Merli, residing in this block. After seeing it, the block administration reached the woman and provided her with a wheelchair (tricycle),” ABDO, Purushottam Dharua said to OTV.

Must Read: OTV Impact: Koraput sub-collector directs probe into 83-yr-old woman pensioner’s death

“We have collected the requisite documents from her to create her Unique Identification ID (Aadhaar card). After which, she can be included in other welfare schemes,” the ABDO further said.