GOVT.’S SWIFT AND COMPASSIONATE RESPONSE BRINGS RELIEF TO 80-YEAR-OLD WOMAN IN DISTRESS
Panaji; August 21, 2025
An example of Antyodaya Tatva in action. A recent news report highlighting the plight of an 80-year-old woman in Nirankal, Shiroda constituency, living in a dilapidated and unsafe house, has now transformed into a story of hope and reassurance — thanks to the swift, empathetic, and coordinated action of Government authorities.
Smt. Samati Datta Gawde Velip, a widow with no close family support, had been struggling for years in a house whose roof was falling apart, surviving only on a meagre income. The Deputy Collector and Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Ponda, Shri Shubham Naik, immediately took cognizance and ensured that the administration reached out to her without delay.
At first, Smt. Samati was hesitant and unsure about availing institutional help. However, once the administration personally approached her and explained the available support, she gained the confidence to step out of her unsafe home and accept the assistance offered.
Field reports confirmed the dilapidated condition of her house and absence of close relatives. Recognizing the urgency, the Deputy Collector personally coordinated with the Director of Provedoria, Shri Vinayak Volvoikar, to arrange immediate accommodation for her in an old-age home, and with the Health Officer of PHC Shiroda, Dr. Seema Fondekar to conduct her medical examination and issued the necessary certificate for admission.
Going beyond formal directions, the Deputy Collector personally visited her residence, ensured safe transport, and arranged for a police escort so that Smt. Samati could be accompanied with dignity and security. Within 24 hours, she was successfully admitted to the Provedoria-run Old Age Home at Chinchinim, where she was received with care and compassion.
The Directorate of Social Welfare will process her entitlements under welfare schemes, ensuring both immediate rehabilitation and long-term relief. This case is a shining example of how government institutions, when working in unison and guided by empathy, can transform lives. The rapid and humane response by the Office of the Deputy Collector, Provedoria, Police, Health Department, and Directorate of Social Welfare ensured that an elderly woman in distress was not left unattended.
The action embodies the principle of Antyodaya Tatva championed by Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, ensuring that the last and most vulnerable citizen is not only reached but also uplifted.
What began as a tale of despair has now become a narrative of reassurance and dignity — proving that while challenges exist, the Government’s proactive and compassionate response can truly make a difference.
DI/NB/DB/AXP/CR/2025/638