Uttarakhand's Championing Elderly: Empowerment, Sports, and Welfare Initiatives

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami highlighted the integral role of senior citizens at the 'Senior Citizen Honour and Sports Festival-2026'. Dhami emphasized the societal value of elders and announced various state and central government schemes promoting their welfare, financial security, and active lifestyle through sports and caregiving programs.

In a spirited ceremony at Dr. Sushila Tiwari Government Medical College, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami underscored the indispensable role of senior citizens in society. Speaking at the 'Senior Citizen Honour and Sports Festival-2026' in Haldwani, Dhami called the elderly "invaluable assets" whose wisdom steers societal progress.

Dhami extolled families that reverence elders, noting that such respect breeds happiness and prosperity. He likened the elderly to the robust roots of a banyan tree, highlighting how their blessings fortify social structures. "Homes respecting elders are inherently prosperous and divinely blessed," he asserted.

Participation of seniors in vibrant sports competitions reflected the mantra that 'age is just a number', Dhami noted. He emphasized that under PM Narendra Modi's leadership, the welfare of senior citizens is a top priority. Citing schemes like Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana, Dhami reiterated the state's robust strides in ensuring dignity and security for the elderly.

The old-age pension scheme benefits 600,000 seniors with monthly pensions through DBT, while individual pensions for couples enhance financial security. Government efforts are also directed towards modernizing old-age homes, with new facilities rising in Dehradun and Champawat.

Programs under the Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana provide nutrition and healthcare, and a pioneering geriatric caregiver training program is underway. The Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana offers assistive devices and free cataract surgeries, with targets set to serve 1,300 seniors this year.

Dhami also outlined the effective implementation of the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, ensuring legal support for elderly rights. Visiting children in Khatima, his casual interaction brought smiles, resonating his message of community togetherness and care. (ANI)