Part B (Q6): Mention the various welfare schemes for the aged.

The Government of India has implemented several welfare schemes to address the financial, health, and social needs of the growing elderly population.

1. Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme (IGNOAPS):

• This is the flagship financial security scheme under the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP).
• It provides a direct monthly cash transfer (pension) to older persons belonging to Below Poverty Line (BPL) households.
• Persons aged 60-79 receive a base amount (historically Rs. 200/month from the center, often supplemented by states), and those 80 years and above receive a higher amount (Rs. 500/month).

2. National Programme for the Health Care of the Elderly (NPHCE):

• Launched to provide accessible and specialized healthcare to the elderly.
• It aims to establish geriatric departments in district hospitals and regional medical centers.
• It focuses on preventive, curative, and rehabilitative services specifically tailored to age-related illnesses, including setting up dedicated wards and OPDs for the elderly to avoid long queues.

3. Integrated Programme for Older Persons (IPOP):

• This scheme focuses on improving the quality of life of older persons by providing financial assistance to Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and local bodies.
• The funds are used to run Old Age Homes (for the destitute), Day Care Centers (providing socialization and recreation to combat loneliness), and Mobile Medicare Units (reaching elderly in remote rural areas).

4. Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana (RVY):

• Aimed at elderly individuals belonging to BPL categories who suffer from age-related disabilities or infirmities (like low vision, hearing impairment, loss of teeth, or locomotor disabilities).
• The scheme provides physical aids and assisted-living devices completely free of cost. This includes walking sticks, hearing aids, wheelchairs, spectacles, and artificial dentures.

5. Vayoshreshtha Samman:

• A scheme of national awards instituted by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. It recognizes the outstanding contributions made by eminent senior citizens and institutions working for the welfare of older persons, promoting a positive image of ageing.