HEALTH INSURANCE FOR SENIOR CITIZENS

PANJIM: Chief Minister Digambar Kamat has said the government would unveil a health insurance scheme for the senior citizens of the state on January 26, 2011.

Addressing senior citizens on World Elder’s Day in the city here on Friday organised by the Senior Citizens Forum of India, Chief Minister said that discussions are underway with an insurance provider to finalise the scheme and exuded confidence that the scheme would become a reality by January 26.

Under the scheme, he said that senior citizens can avail benefit of Rs 60,000 annually to meet the medical expenses. He informed that the government has already worked out a scheme for artists and for the journalists community.

Speaking on the occasion, Commissioner for NRI Affairs, Eduardo Faleiro congratulated the Senior Citizens Forum of India for their valuable contribution to the welfare of the elderly.

He said the traditional norms of Indian society laid stress on showing respect and providing care for the aged. “However, in recent times, we are witnessing a definite erosion of family values as a result many parents are neglected by their families and lack emotional, physical and financial support. At present times, the plight of the elderly has become a major social challenge”, he said, while underlining the need to provide for their economic and health needs and create a social milieu which is favourable to their emotional needs.

Faleiro said the Union Ministry of Social Justice Empowerment has formulated an Integrated programme for the elderly, adding that voluntary organisations such as the Forum for Senior Citizens of India should take advantage of different schemes promoted by that Ministry. (HD)