Centre asks states to provide matching grants to Old Age Pensions

New Delhi, Dec 14 (UNI) The Centre, having enhanced the old age pension from Rs 75 to 200, urged the states to contribute equally so that the senior citizens get at least Rs 400 a month.

Minister of Social Justice Empowerment Meira Kumar told the Rajya Sabha today that the policy of the government was to strengthen the legal rights of older people apart from providing financial security, health care and approximate concessions.

Detailing the facilities and benefits extended to the elderly the Minister said rebate in income tax rebate upto Rs 1.85 lakh per annum was allowed to senior citizens who have attained 65 years and a higher rate of interest on their savings was provided to them.

The state road transport corporations offered fare concession to the senior citizens and some were introducing model buses to help the elderly population. Separate queues for older persons in the hospitals for registration and clincal examination were offered by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Ms Kumar said.

The Railways provided 30 per cent fare concession for all citizens over 60 years and wheel chairs for the disabled at all junctions.

UNI MCN YA DS1445