Port Blair, Feb 24: The Member of Parliament, Shri. Kuldeep Rai Sharma has highlighted some pressing concerns regarding the welfare of the senior citizens of Andaman & Nicobar Islands before the Hon’ble Lt. Governor of Andaman & Nicobar Islands.

In a letter addressed to the Hon’ble Lt. Governor, the Member of Parliament said that our elderly citizens face a multitude of challenges and difficulties in their day-to-day lives, especially when it comes to accessing basic services and facilities.

In light of this, the Member of Parliament proposed following points:

1) The Member of Parliament requested that income tax be waived off for senior citizens who have no regular source of income and most of them rely on pension or old age allowances. This issue may be taken up with the Government of India. Similarly, no octroi, property tax, or water tax should be charged from them by PBMC, to ease their financial burden, he noted.

2) He urged to mandate separate queues for senior citizens in every department, to ensure that they are given priority and assistance in all situations. This would go a long way in easing their difficulties and ensuring a hassle-free experience for them.

3) He requested that hospitals and medical facilities issue separate colour medical slips to senior citizens, to help medical staffs and the general public to identify and provide assistance to them when needed. This is particularly important in emergency situations, where quick and efficient assistance can mean the difference between life and death.

4) The Member of Parliament urged the formation of a senior citizen committee in every district, to help address the issues faced by the elderly in our region. This committee could serve as a valuable resource for the administration, providing valuable feedback and insights into the challenges faced by our senior citizens.

5) He suggested that the administration conduct meetings with senior citizens in every district every six months, to ensure that their concerns are being heard and addressed in a timely manner.

6) He requested that reservation facilities be provided to senior citizens in private buses, as it is done in STS buses, to ensure that they have access to transportation services.

7) The Member of Parliament urged that every police station have a senior citizen committee, to address the specific concerns and issues faced by elderly citizens.

8) He requested that the administration provide space and opportunities for sports and recreational activities for senior citizens, to ensure that they stay active and engaged in their later years.

9) He suggested that a delegation of at least 12 senior citizens (6 male and 6 female) be taken on a tour of the mainland every year, to provide them with new experiences and opportunities.

10) Lastly, he suggested setting up a senior citizen (24X7) helpline, where senior citizens in any distress can call and ask for assistance.