(a) whether the Government propose to bring forward a legislation for protection of
life and property of elderly persons;
(b) if so, the details thereof ;
(c) whether the Government are making efforts for effective implementation of
national policy for elderly persons; and
(d) if so, the details thereof?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF SOCIAL JUSTICE & EMPOWERMENT (DR. SANJAY PASWAN)
(a) & (b) The Government is sensitive to the issue of protection of rights of senior
citizens. However, the question of bringing a comprehensive legislation needs
careful consideration and wide consultation.
(c)&(d) Yes, Sir. The Government has constituted a National Council for Older Persons
(NCOP) which is the highest body to advice and coordinate with the Government
in the formulation and implementation of National Policy for Older Persons. So
far three meetings of National Council of Older Persons were held. The Plan of
Action 2000-2005 to operationalise the National Policy for Older Persons has
been prepared and finalized by the Ministry. The initiatives as per the Plan of
Action are to be implemented by various concerned Ministries/Departments. The
Ministry has also set up an Inter-Ministerial Committee for ensuring speedy
implementation of the decisions taken in these meetings and also to review the
progress of Plan of Action 2000-2005 for implementation by the concerned
Ministries/Departments. An Annual Plan of Action 2003-04 for implementation
by the concerned Ministries/Departments has also been finalized.
In the Budget proposals of Railways the age limit for men has been
reduced from 65 to 60 years for availing 30% concession in railway fares. The
age was already 60 years for women. In the General Budget proposals 2003-04,
certain concessions such as tax rebate to senior citizens and launching of Special
Pension Policy called Varishtha Pension Bima Yojana for Senior Citizens have
been included.