Minister of State for Forest, Environment & Ecology, Mir Zahoor Ahmad, distributed assistive devices worth Rs. 21.9 lakh to 52 differently-abled persons here today.The assistive devices were provided under the MLA’s Local Area Development Fund at a function organized by the District Social Welfare Department. The Minister distributed tri-cycles to 28 beneficiaries, wheelchairs to 22, and hearing aid devices to 9 persons.He also distributed cheques worth Rs 28.20 lakh among 137 beneficiaries of IAY and Swach Bharat Mission of the district for construction of houses and individual household latrines.Speaking on the occasion, Mir Zahoor appreciated the role of Social Welfare Department, Rural Development Department and District Panchayat Offices in providing assistance and relief to the poor and deserving sections of the society.He stated that peace and stability is must for overall development and progress of the State. He asked the officers to work tirelessly on ground so that the Government’s welfare schemes are implemented in letter and spirit and their benefits percolate to the grass root level.Earlier, DDC Pulwama, Muneer-ul-Islam, welcomed the Minister and also spoke on the occasion. He said that every possible support will be provided by the district administration to the poor, needy and deserving sections of the society. He said that in near future ramp and lift services will be made available in the Social Welfare and Tehsil Offices for the convenience of the physically challenged people.Among others, Assistant Commissioner Development, District Social Welfare Officer, District Panchayat Officer and other concerned officers were present on the occasion.