Kerala mulling removal of curbs on old age pension: Minister

Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 6 (UNI) The government is seriously considering removing restriction on old age pension currently being distributed to a limited number of people, Kerala Health and Social Welfare Minister P K Sreemathy informed the State Assembly today.

Replying to questions from Mr P C Vishnunath (Cong) and others, she said the government would also consider making widows, who had sons above 18 years of age, eligible for widow pension.

Ms Sreemathy said the government would take steps to prosecute children, who were not taking care of their parents, once the old age policy was implemented in the state. It would also encourage voluntary organisations running old age homes.

The Health Minister said special consideration and treatment would be given to old people living Below the Poverty Line in all taluk and district hospitals.

Stating Kerala had the largest number of old age homes, she said the government would seriously consider their demands for financial aid after scrutinising their functioning.

UNI