Central Government has many schemes for every age group people. Amid the festive season, senior citizens will happy to know that the government offers them 5 gifts to secure their old age. What are the 5 major gifts from the government to the elderly people? Let’s explore.
The government has launched a variety of schemes to facilitate and respect senior citizens. These include social security, healthcare, pensions, and tax benefits. Each of the schemes listed below is a major step towards making life easier for the elderly.
5 major gifts for senior citizens:
Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana (PMVVY)
This scheme is run by the Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC). Under this scheme, individuals aged 60 years and above are given the opportunity to receive a pension at a fixed interest rate for 10 years. This scheme assures senior citizens of safe investment and regular income.
Integrated Programme for Senior Citizens (IPOP)
Run by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, this scheme provides shelter, food, medical facilities and entertainment for the elderly. Under this scheme, old age homes and health services are being provided across the country.
Prime Minister Shram Yogi Maandhan Scheme
This scheme is specifically for unorganized sector workers and senior citizens. It provides a monthly pension of ₹3,000 after the age of 60. This scheme is important for those senior citizens who have not done any salaried work in their life.
National Programme for Health Care of the Elderly (NPHCE)
This scheme of the Ministry of Health was created with the health of senior citizens in mind. Under this scheme, special geriatric health centers and geriatric hospitals have been established across the country. Free medicines and camps are being provided in these centres.
Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS)
One of the most popular investment schemes for senior citizens, available at post offices and banks, is the fixed interest rate and tax benefits. This scheme is best suited for senior citizens seeking safe and assured returns.
Other benefits and facilities
The government has also provided some additional facilities for senior citizens:
Special exemption in income tax (up to ₹3 lakh for those above 60 years, up to ₹5 lakh for those above 80 years)
Concessions in railway and air travel
Additional tax deduction on health insurance
Assistance facility through mobile health units and helpline services “14567”
One-stop information on all government schemes through “Senior Citizen Portal (Ageing with Dignity)”
Significance and purpose
The number of senior citizens in India is rapidly increasing. The government’s goal is to provide every senior with economic, social, and health security so they can live a life with dignity.
The government is working on the principle of “Aging with Dignity” to ensure every citizen enjoys a dignified old age.