New Delhi, August 28: The Delhi government is set to launch the ‘Vayo Anand’ scheme aimed at enhancing the lives of senior citizens in the capital. This initiative will establish centers where elderly individuals can relax, engage in indoor games, socialize, and participate in various activities during their leisure time.
These centers will also host yoga and meditation classes specifically for senior citizens. Additionally, monthly medical camps and first aid kits will be available at these locations. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta emphasized that senior citizens are an invaluable asset to society, and ensuring their respect, health, active lifestyle, and social engagement is a priority for the government.
The recreational centers will provide facilities for indoor games like carrom and ludo, along with seating arrangements, fans, coolers, televisions, and computers. Newspapers, magazines, and books will be accessible to help seniors make the most of their free time. Special events such as International Yoga Day, Senior Citizens Day, and national festivals will also be celebrated at these centers, with at least 5-6 events planned annually. The scheme includes provisions for monthly medical camps and first aid kits, as well as health and fitness classes, outdoor tours, storytelling sessions, painting, crafts, pottery, nutritional counseling, and both indoor and outdoor games.
The recreational centers will operate at least five days a week, for a minimum of seven hours each day, from 7 AM to 8 PM. They will be designed with adequate ventilation and restroom facilities. To ensure accessibility, centers will be located on the ground floor or equipped with lifts. Programs will also prioritize women, differently-abled, and transgender senior citizens. In case of emergencies, there will be coordination with nearby police stations and hospitals. The scheme mandates that each recreational center must have at least 200 members aged 60 or older.
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced that eligible recreational centers will receive financial assistance of ₹2.40 lakh per financial year, equivalent to ₹20,000 per month. This amount will be disbursed in two equal semi-annual installments. Centers catering to seniors aged 60 and above will be eligible for this support. Operators must prioritize providing the aforementioned facilities and services at their centers, which must be located in community spaces within Delhi. The scheme also includes centers operated by Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs), Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS), and community spaces like chaupals.
The objective of the ‘Vayo Anand’ scheme is to create a safe and convenient space for senior citizens to spend time with peers, engage in recreational and health-related activities, and lead an active social life, free from loneliness. The government is committed to strengthening such arrangements for the benefit of senior citizens, ensuring they have a dignified and healthy living environment.
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