From fragrance to welfare: Lavender festival to spread social awareness

With hundreds of visitors expected to attend the two-day Lavender Festival beginning June 6, the Social Welfare Department is gearing up to turn the popular event into a platform for spreading awareness about government welfare schemes and social protection services.

Preparations for the department’s information stall at Government Degree College (GDC) Bhaderwah were reviewed today by Tehsil Social Welfare Officer (TSWO) Bhaderwah during a meeting with departmental officials and representatives of the Child Helpline.

The meeting focused on showcasing key welfare initiatives, including social security schemes, women empowerment programmes, child protection services and other public welfare measures. Officials discussed plans for displaying informative material and ensuring effective communication with visitors and beneficiaries attending the festival.

Emphasising the importance of community outreach, the TSWO directed officials to complete the installation of the stall well in time and ensure its smooth operation throughout the event. Stressing coordination and professionalism, the officer called upon all stakeholders to actively engage with the public and maximize awareness about the department’s initiatives.

The Lavender Festival, one of Bhaderwah’s major annual attractions, is expected to provide the Social Welfare Department an opportunity to connect directly with a large number of residents, tourists and stakeholders while highlighting various government schemes aimed at social welfare and inclusive development.