Chhattisgarh: Dr. Daneshwari Sambhakar, Deputy Director, Public Relations Department

Chhattisgarh: At the heart of Indian culture lie our senior citizens, the custodians of memories and the carriers of wisdom who guide society with their experience. However, changing social dynamics have led to shrinking family structures and reduced social engagement. In such a scenario, ensuring the dignity, safety, health and social participation of senior citizens becomes a primary responsibility of the government. With this vision, Chhattisgarh Government has introduced sensitized policies backed by effective implementation, setting an exemplary model for the nation.

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai has placed the respect and dignity of senior citizens at the core of governance. He firmly believes that “serving one’s parents is equal to serving God.” Guided by this thought, the State Government is expanding initiatives that enhance the quality of life for the elderly.

On the occasion of International Day of Elderly People (1 October), Chief Minister Shri Sai announced the establishment of modern old-age homes in Raipur, Bilaspur, Korba and Durg on a Public–Private Partnership (PPP) model, along with a dedicated assistive device service centre for destitute elderly citizens and persons with disabilities in Raipur. Simultaneously, the expansion of community-based “Siyan Gudi” socio-spiritual centres is providing senior citizens emotional, cultural and spiritual support.

Chhattisgarh Minister for Social Welfare Smt. Laxmi Rajwade has taken concrete steps to ensure that elderly-centric programmes reach the grassroots. She said, “Sensitive governance means reaching every senior citizen with service and security.”

Currently, 35 old-age homes are operating in the state, providing food, accommodation, healthcare, counselling and recreational facilities to approximately 1,049 senior citizens. In addition, palliative care homes have been established for critically ill and destitute senior citizens in six districts- Raipur, Durg, Kabirdham, Raigarh, Balod and Bemetara, where 128 elderly persons are receiving free treatment, medicines and regular healthcare.

To address the problems of senior citizens a dedicated helpline service has been established. So far, over 2,70,000 cases have been resolved, instilling confidence and a sense of security among senior citizens.

Strict implementation of the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007 has ensured protection of senior citizens’ rights. Maintenance Tribunals at sub-divisional level and Appellate Tribunals at district level are enabling swift resolution of matters related to property, maintenance and safety of elderly persons.

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Financial aid is being provided regularly to senior citizens living Below Poverty Line (BPL). Elderly persons aged 60 to 79 years receive a monthly pension of Rs 500, and senior citizens aged 80 years and above receive Rs 650 per month. Currently, more than 14 lakh senior citizens are benefitting from this pension support, which serves as a foundation of financial security.

Under the Ayushman Bharat and Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Health Assistance Schemes, over 8 lakh senior citizens have received free medical treatment. Additionally, under the Senior Citizens Assistive Device Distribution Scheme, more than 50,000 elderly persons have been provided with wheelchairs, hearing aids, walking sticks, spectacles and other supportive devices.

Recognizing that spiritual fulfilment plays a crucial role in mental well-being, the State Government has facilitated pilgrimage opportunities. Through the Mukhyamantri Tirth Yatra Yojana and Shri Ramlalla Darshan Yojana, more than 2.5 lakh senior citizens have availed pilgrimage benefits, visiting 278 spiritual destinations. They were provided the opportunity of visiting various spiritual destinations across the country. During these journeys, lodging, food and medical support are provided free of cost.

Every year, on 1 October, Senior Citizens Day is observed at both state and district levels, promoting sensitivity, respect and collective responsibility towards elders in society.

Under the leadership of Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai and Social Welfare Minister Smt. Laxmi Rajwade, Chhattisgarh has demonstrated that compassionate governance, efficient execution and a human-centric vision can bring about real transformation in the lives of senior citizens.

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