INDIA: Retired Citizens Have a Lot to Offer, Notes Convention

KOLKATA (Statesman News Service), September 8, 2002: They may be old, but they have a lot still to offer. About 120 million (12 crore) of the country’s total population is over 65 and their voice needs to be heard. In a unique gathering of retired citizens, the Indian Association of Retired Persons held its 5th convention today. Noted writer Mr Buddhadeb Guha stressed on the importance of “feeling young at heart” irrespective of age. The primary issues that the senior citizens grapple with are related to health care and social security, Dr Sisir K Dutta, president of the association, said. “In fact, three years ago, we had drafted a proposal OAISS (the proposed Old Age Income Security Act) and submitted it to Mrs Maneka Gandhi, former social justice and empowerment minister. But unfortunately, nothing materialised.” The 4,000-member organisation offers assistance in health care, transportation, social, cultural and intellectual stimulation and alleviation of loneliness and isolation. Members are provided medicines and medical facilities at cheaper rates. It also organises picnics, medical camps, excursions and cultural functions. Members receive medical, legal and financial advice from experts at discounted rates. “We lose about 100 members to old age every year and every Saturday we have a meeting where we observe a two meeting silence for our departed members,” Dr Dutta said.