Elderly NGOs Advocate for Comprehensive Support in Upcoming Union Budget

As the Union Budget announcement approaches, elderly NGOs in India, including Agewell Foundation and HelpAge India, are calling for enhanced financial support, healthcare, and social security for seniors. Key proposals include pension revisions, tax exemptions, dedicated healthcare services, and the creation of age-friendly environments.

As the Union Budget announcement looms, NGOs across India, such as Agewell Foundation and HelpAge India, are urging the government to address the pressing needs of senior citizens. These organizations have submitted comprehensive proposals to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, emphasizing the necessity of enhanced financial support, healthcare, and social security.

The primary demand is the revision of the central contribution to the old age pension under the National Social Assistance Program (NSAP). The NGOs propose increasing the pension amount to at least Rs 1,000 per month for individuals over 60 years and Rs 1,500 for those over 80. State government contributions would ideally set a national minimum pension between Rs 1,500 and Rs 3,000 per month.

Additionally, Agewell Foundation has suggested various tax-related benefits targeting senior citizens. Proposals include raising the basic income tax exemption limit, making pensions tax-free up to a certain income, and increasing tax deductions under specific sections. The NGOs also call for GST exemptions on essential products commonly used by the elderly.

Healthcare for the elderly is another priority, with demands for doorstep services, elderly helpdesks at hospitals, and affordable geriatric health insurance. There's also a focus on expanding coverage under the PMJAY scheme.

To encourage active participation of older adults in the workforce, proposals include a self-employment scheme for retirees and skill training centers. Lastly, the creation of age-friendly environments is stressed, including public spaces and community day care centers for seniors.

(With inputs from agencies.)