RAJOURI: An Awareness Camp for senior citizens was today organized by the District Administration Rajouri under the Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana (AVYAY) to spread awareness among elderly citizens about their rights, welfare schemes and services available for their well-being.
The programme began with a welcome address by District Social Welfare Officer (DSWO) Abdul Raheem.
He highlighted the efforts of the Social Welfare Department in ensuring that senior citizens receive the respect, care and support they deserve. He also emphasized the importance of such awareness programmes in connecting elderly citizens with the schemes meant for their welfare.
The event was graced by MLA Rajouri Iftkar Ahmed, along with Additional Deputy Commissioner Malikzada Shaerazul Haq who appreciated the initiative taken by the district administration. They acknowledged the valuable role played by senior citizens in shaping society and stressed the need to ensure their dignity, security and well-being.
A resource person from the Medical Department delivered an informative session on active ageing and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, encouraging senior citizens to stay physically active, maintain a balanced diet and prioritize regular health check-ups for a healthier life.
Advocate Ashfaq Lone from the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) addressed the gathering and sensitized participants about the provisions of the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007, explaining the legal protections available to senior citizens and the support mechanisms in place for their welfare.
A representative from J&K Bank also interacted with the participants and shared information about various financial inclusion schemes and banking facilities designed specifically for senior citizens, encouraging them to make use of these services.
One of the most heartening parts of the programme was the motivational interaction by senior citizens themselves, who shared their experiences and inspired others with their positive outlook and active engagement in life.
On the occasion, pension sanction orders were distributed, wheelchairs and free-of-cost medicines were provided to eligible senior citizens.
To honour their lifelong contributions, senior citizens who have excelled in fields such as literature, agriculture, horticulture, social service, medical services and ex-servicemen were felicitated, acknowledging their dedication and service to society.
The camp also featured information stalls set up by the Social Welfare Department, AYUSH Department, Medical Department and J&K Bank, where participants received guidance and information about various schemes and services.
The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from senior citizens and concluded with a renewed commitment from the district administration to continue working for the welfare, dignity and empowerment of elderly citizens in Rajouri district.
