Himachal Pradesh Government to open Varishth Nagrik Suvidha Kendra for senior citizens :CM

Shimla: The State Government would open Varishth Nagrik Suvidha Kendra on pilot basis to offer comprehensive day care services to senior citizens to lead a healthy and dignified lifestyle. This was stated by Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur while presiding over the meeting regarding guidelines related to opening of Senior Citizen Facilitation Centres in the State.

Chief Minister said that these centres apart from having day care facilities such as recreation activities, upgradation of skill would also have facilities of free health check up for senior citizens, wellness programmes such as yoga sessions etc. He said that possibilities would be explored to manage the Kendra by NGOs and the State Government would provide them grant for their effective functioning.

Jai Ram Thakur said that State Government was committed for welfare of the senior citizens and about 3.91 lakh old age persons were provided social security pension at the enhanced rate. He said that an integrated Scheme for Older Persons has been formulated for running and maintenance of oldage homes, day care centres, helpline and counselling for older persons.

Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Dr. Rajiv Saizal gave valuable suggestions on the occasion.

Additional Chief Secretary, Social Justice and Empowerment Nisha Singh welcomed the Chief Minister and detailed various activities being implemented by the State Government for the welfare of senior citizens.

Chief Secretary Anil Khachi, Principal Secretary Finance Prabodh Saxena, Secretary, Director Women and Child Welfare Kritika Kulhari, Special Secretary to Chief Minister D.C. Rana and other senior officers were also present on the occasion.