Ministry of Martyrs to Resume Allowance Payments Soon

Many families of martyrs and persons with disabilities continue to face severe economic difficulties due to delays in their monthly allowance payments. Individuals living with disabilities for over two decades report struggling to cover basic living expenses amid high unemployment and increased costs, such as transportation.

For example, Mohammad Mubin, disabled for 26 years and sole family provider, highlighted that disabled persons face higher travel costs than non-disabled individuals. Similarly, Rahima, a martyr’s family member, described dire conditions four years after her husband’s death, urgently needing food assistance.

Calls for Timely Payments and Increased Support

Affected families demand that monthly allowances be paid on time to alleviate worsening living conditions. Noor Mohammad, another disabled person, emphasized the urgent need for consistent payments to support their children and families. Disabled individuals also appeal for increased benefits, noting that current payments are insufficient compared to previous government support, which was higher and more regular.

Ministry’s Efforts and Biometric Registration Initiative

The Ministry of Martyrs and Disabled Affairs announced that allowance payments for the first quarter of the current solar year will begin shortly. To improve transparency and accuracy, the ministry has implemented a biometric registration system for martyrs’ families and persons with disabilities, replacing paper IDs with electronic cards. This system aims to ensure rightful recipients receive payments, and about 3,500 ineligible individuals were identified during recent checks. The ministry reported distributing nearly 12.5 billion afghanis last year to support nearly 600,000 widows, orphans, and disabled persons.

Challenges and Payment Progress

Despite these efforts, some recipients report irregular and delayed payments, with many disabled individuals still waiting for full disbursement after biometric registration. The ministry confirmed that 85% of monthly payments have been completed, but some beneficiaries were removed due to improved economic status or reaching adulthood. Disabled persons continue to request additional support, including food supplies and heating materials, highlighting ongoing hardships.