The District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) Srinagar, National Institute of Social Defense, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Govt. of India, in collaboration with Anugraha Regional Resource and Training Centre on Ageing, and Elder line (HelpAge) conducted one day Awareness and Sensitization programme for Senior Citizens on Govt. Policies, Programmes, Legal Aid and Laws for Senior Citizens at Srinagar.
The programme was organized under the patronage of the Ministry of Social justice and empowerment, Govt. of India in collaboration with Anugraha Regional Resource and Training Centre on Ageing.“The main objective of this programme was to provide an awareness among senior citizens and aware them about their rights and various laws mainly Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens, Act 2007.
Bilal Ahmad Bhat (Social Activist) hosted the programme and also explained about the prevention of elder abuse and role of youth.Fozia Paul (Sub-Judge) Secretary DLSA Srinagar who was Chief Guest had a brief introduction with the Elderly people and discussed Legal Protection and Legal Aid for Senior Citizens.
Advocate Bisma Khan delivered a lecture on legal aspects and explained different laws for senior citizens including MWPSC Act, 2007 and prevention of Elder Abuse. Irshad, Field Response Officer Elderline J&K stressed on financial protection in old age and different social schemes for senior citizens under Govt. policies.
Among other guests, Mohammad Bari (Tehsil Social Welfare Officer), Members of ICDS department, and para legal volunteers were also present in the programme.They laid focus on other factors and held a detailed discussion with the attendees which included senior citizens at large. The program was followed by a signature campaign to eradicate elder abuse.