The officer, who was accompanied by the village pradhan, inquired about her BPL card, the job card under NREGA and widow pension. Confirming the BDO’s visit, Chief Development Officer of Sultanpur B Ram said Shivkumari’s health did not permit her to work. “Since she cannot work, the process is on to engage her as a mate (leader of a group of labourers),” he said.

He said Shivkumari had recently received Rs 1,800 as widow pension for the first six months after her husband’s death. Her husband died a year ago, and they had taken steps to ensure regular payment, he added. The CDO said Shivkumari had lost her BPL card. Therefore, the village pradhan assured to give her Rs 500 and foodgrains until a new card was issued. “Soon, the BPL card will be issued again,” the CDO said.