The first meeting of the newly constituted National Council of Senior Citizens held under the chairmanship of the Minister of Social Justice & Empowerment Thaawarchand Gehlot here today. Minister of State for Social Justice & Empowerment Shri Ramdas Athawale and Secretary, M/o SJ&E Smt. Anita Agnihotri were present on the occasion Addressing on the occasion Shri Thaarwarchand Gehlot welcomed all the new member of the Council and apprised them of their roles and responsibilities in the council. He said that ancient culture of our country signifies the importance of service to the old persons and senior citizens and it is our ancient tradition. He emphasized that the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment is committed to formulate and implement positive schemes for the welfare of the senior citizens. He informed the members that the efforts are going on to increase the nominal amount of Old Age pension.
He expressed his concern on the deteriorating safety and security condition of senior citizens in our country. He opined that without the proper cooperation of State Governments and NGOs, this purpose will not be served. He announced that now onwards ‘Vridhashram’ will be called “Vriddh Jan Grah” where all facilities of recreation and entertainment for the senior citizens will be available.In his address Shri Ramdas Athwale said that the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment is working towards the welfare of all senior citizens in the country and is supporting many organizations who are involved in this mission.In her welcome address, Smt. Anita Agnihotri said that the 10 Agenda points for this meeting cover all aspects of welfare of senior citizens and their purpose is to ensure that the programme and policies for senior citizens are properly implemented.