JS body for full implementation of 2013 policy on elderly persons
A parliamentary body today recommended implementing the National Policy on Older Persons.
Although the policy was formulated in 2013, it has not been fully implemented yet, it said.
The parliamentary standing committee on the social welfare ministry also suggested increasing the old-age allowance.
During a meeting held at the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban, officials of the Social Welfare Ministry informed the committee that the Department of Social Services is working to implement the policy.
Tk 500 per month is already being given to 57.1 lakh elderly beneficiaries under the social security programme and hospitals were established for them, the officials said.
The Directorate of Social Services is also running Shanti Nibas in Faridpur which provides accommodation, food, medical aid, and recreational services to senior citizens, they added.
However, the committee members were not satisfied because they said the policy has not been actually implemented.
The parliamentary watchdog recommended the ministry and related departments take appropriate measures to fully implement it.
"There are around 1 crore 58 lakh senior citizens in the country. In 2013, the policy was formulated but till date there is no implementation. There is not much activity beyond giving old-age allowance," said Rashed Khan Menon, chief of the parliamentary committee, adding that it is why the parliamentary committee has recommended the implementation.
In the meeting, the committee also recommended constructions of roads suitable for senior citizens, introduction of health insurance and savings cards for them, medical services at affordable prices, opening of elderly departments at medical colleges, district and upazila hospitals and, telemedicine services in remote areas.
It also recommended making possible travelling at low fares by all types of vehicles for senior citizens.
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