In Jammu and Kashmir, the State Minister for Social Welfare, Ms Sakina Itoo today said the Social Welfare Department is presently giving financial assistance under handicapped, old age and widowhood category to the tune of Rs 161 crore in favour of 4, Lakh 72,180 persons in the State. She also said more funds are awaited from the Centre for 40,000 new cases. <br/> <br/>The Minister directed officers to provide hassle-free services to old aged, handicapped and widows. She said a separate counter, exclusively for these persons, shall be opened in each tehsil office. She also disclosed that the Centre has approved for opening of 500 additional Cr’che Centers for Jammu and Kashmir. <br/> <br/>Ms. Itoo said 5 crore rupees would be utilized for setting up of these centers, while Rs.42000 would be expended on nutrition and pre-primary education during the current financial year. <br/><br/>