Bhubaneswar, May 4: In view of the ongoing intense heatwave across the state, the Odisha government has issued urgent directives to ensure pension distribution under the Madhu Babu Pension Yojana (MBPY) is safe and convenient for beneficiaries.

According to instructions sent by Suresh Kumar Vashishth, Secretary of the Department of Social Security and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, all district collectors have been asked to take special measures to protect the elderly, differently-abled, and vulnerable individuals from the adverse effects of extreme heat.

The letter highlights that temperatures in various regions have reached 40–45°C, while coastal areas are experiencing high humidity and oppressive conditions. Officials have expressed concern that beneficiaries visiting distribution centers on the scheduled 15th of every month could be at risk of heatstroke, dehydration, or heat exhaustion.

To mitigate these risks, district administrations have been instructed to provide drinking water, ORS packets, and basic medical facilities at distribution centers. Additionally, for senior citizens, differently-abled persons, the sick, and other vulnerable beneficiaries, pensions should be delivered directly to their homes, eliminating the need to travel to Panchayat offices or other collection points.