Special scheme to utilise experience of senior citizens: CM

Bengaluru, Oct. 1: A special scheme will be evolved to make use of the experience of senior citizens where ever it is necessary in the government works, said Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai.

Speaking after inaugurating the World Senior Citizens day organised by Department of Senior Citizens Empowerment Department at Ravindra Kala Kshethra here on Saturday, he said the suggestions and guidance of the senior citizens will be taken to build the state. Wherever possible their services and experience will be utilised.

Hike in pension
Bommai said the pension for the physically challenged and the senior citizens was hiked after he became the CM. The health check-up of persons above 60 years of age is done twice a year and in case of health issues the cost of treatment will be borne by the government. Free eye check-up is held in the State. A scheme has been formulated for the free eye surgery and distribution of the spectacles to the needy people.

For the purpose of the hearing impaired senior citizens, a scheme has been drawn for the implant for which Rs 500 crore is made available. The dialysis cycle has been increased from 30000 to 60000.

The chemotherapy for the cancer has been doubled. As many as 12 new cancer centers have been started. They have many senior citizens who works without any rest. There are senior citizens working like the mercury. The youths must be active just like the senior citizens. They can also be active if the change their life style.

Bemoaning over increase in home for aged in the State, the CM said it was unfortunate that people are sending their parents to the home for aged. The country has a rich tradition of 5000 years. The relationship has no value. Humanity is more important than anything.

Ministers Halappa Achar, V Somanna, Shankar Patil Munenkoppa, MLA Uday Garudachar, Ravi Subramanya and others were present

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