MUMBAI: CM Eknath Shinde on Monday announced the establishment of the Senior Citizens Welfare Corporation and said all the schemes for the senior citizens should be implemented through this corporation. CM Shinde said that he will request the centre to resume the concession given to senior citizens on rail travel and reduce the GST on wheelchairs, other essential materials and medical bills.
“By the year 2047, the number of senior citizens in India will increase significantly. Keeping in mind the growing need for amenities for senior citizens, it is necessary to prepare from now. At present, the government has started Vyoshree Yojana for the senior citizens and the benefits are being distributed directly through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). Along with this state transport travel discount has been given. In the coming period, Virangula (recreation) Center will be created in every municipal area. Through this center, help will be provided to senior citizens for dementia, Alzheimer’s disease. We must take the help of non-governmental organizations to form a self-help group for seniors and provide help to seniors from the concept of seniors,” CM Shinde said.
“A pilot project should be implemented initially through the BMC for vaccination of influenza and pneumonia vaccines which are necessary for senior citizens. After that these vaccines should be made available throughout the state through Balasaheb Thackeray clinic. We will request the central government to resume the concession given to senior citizens on rail travel and to reduce the GST on wheelchairs and other essential materials and medical bills,” CM Shinde said.