DELHI TO HAVE MORE RE-CREATIONAL CENTRES FOR SENIOR CITIZENS- KIRAN WALIA

Delhi government plans to set up more re-creational centres during the current fiscal 2013-14 for the old age persons to provide facilities for relaxation, avenues of Social for their leisure time. These facilities would keep the Aged Persons integrated in their respective families and the old persons will not be looked upon as problem to be cared for in the daytime when the family members go for their work/ vocation.

“Altogether 83 Recreation Centers are being run by civil Society Organizations in different areas of Delhi. The Senior citizens Council under the Social welfare department of Delhi government provides these recreational centres one time grant of Rs 75,000 for buying basic necessities for the centre and Rs 20,000 per month for covering operational expenses” said Dr Kiran Walia, Minister for education and social welfare while speaking at a function organised by Delhi Senior Citizen’s welfare Association last evening .

“Delhi has more than two million senior citizens out of total of 90 million in the country. It is important to work out schemes and plans to help the elderly contribute to society. Security of elderly has been one of the main concerns of the state government. It is important to work out schemes and plans to help the elderly contribute to society. Security of elderly has been one of the main concerns of the state government.” Dr Walia added.

The minister also highlighted the role of the elderly in society as well as their emotional and physical wellbeing.

“To minimize the strain on elderly members , the recreational centre in Safdarjung enclave has started free pick and drop transport service from home to the centre and back for its members. Apart from indoor games and a reading room skype (Internet telephony) service has also been provided for the members to remain connected with dear ones in India and abroad”, said Mr K.K.Kapila, Patron in chief , Delhi Senior Citizen’s Welfare association, while speaking on the occasion.

“We have also tied up with nearby private hospitals to provide discounted services to senior citizens and free ambulance service. Free tea/coffee and snacks are also provided to the members. Our main aim is to ensure provide user friendly services as per needs of the senior citizens. “Mr Kapila added.

Those who were present on the occasion included Dr K.K.Aggarwal, Chairman, Heart Care foundation, Mr C.N.Sharma, President of the association, Mr S.S.Rudra, gen secretary and Maj.Gen R.K.Khanna , patron of the organisation.