India, Aug. 29 -- Delhi's senior citizens will soon have a dedicated space to swap loneliness for ludo, meditation and social gatherings, with the Delhi government set to launch the 'Vayo Anand' scheme aimed at promoting an active and socially engaged life for those aged 60 and above. Under the scheme, recreational centres will be developed across the capital where senior citizens can meet and interact, participate in indoor and outdoor games, attend yoga and meditation classes and take part in cultural and social activities. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said ensuring dignity, health and social engagement for the elderly remains a priority of her government.
"Senior citizens of Delhi are an invaluable asset to society. Ensuring their dignity, health, active lifestyle and social engagement is a priority of our government," Gupta said. The centres will offer facilities including carrom, ludo, televisions, computers, newspapers, magazines, books, seating arrangements, fans and coolers. Yoga and meditation classes will be organised, while activities such as painting, craft, pottery, storytelling, nutritional counselling, health and fitness classes and outdoor tours will also be conducted. The government plans to organise at least five to six special programmes every year, including celebrations of International Yoga Day, Senior Citizens' Day and national festivals. Monthly medical camps and first-aid kits will also be available at the centres. According to the scheme, centres will operate at least five days a week for a minimum of seven hours a day, between 7 am and 8 pm. Preference will be given to ground-floor facilities or buildings with lifts, along with adequate ventilation and toilets. Special programmes will also be organised for women, persons with disabilities and transgender senior citizens. Eligible recreational centres will receive financial assistance of Rs 2.40 lakh annually, or Rs 20,000 per month, from the government. The assistance will be released in two equal half-yearly instalments. The centres must have at least 200 members aged 60 years or above and can operate from community spaces, including those run through RWAs, CGHS and chau pals. Gupta said the scheme aims to provide elderly residents with a safe space close to home where they can spend time with their peers, participate in recreational and health activities and stay away from loneliness.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.