The 'Senior Citizen Day Care Centre', Gorakhpur, launched with the aim of making the social lives of the city's elderly happy and active, is now becoming a new haven of happiness for them. Keeping in mind the convenience and financial situation of senior citizens, Municipal Commissioner Gaurav Singh Sogarwal has taken a significant and commendable step.
Now, senior citizens registering at this centre will have to pay a fee of only Rs 500 annually instead of Rs 6,000. Meanwhile, this step by the municipal administration is proving to be a milestone in the direction of creating an 'Age-Friendly City'.
ALSO READ: GDA To Develop Bunkar Mart As Expo And Convention Centre In Ghaziabad; Over 500 Jobs Expected
Previously, the fee for this centre was set at Rs 500 per month, according to which senior citizens were required to pay Rs 6,000 for the whole year. Following the Municipal Commissioner's new decision, the monthly burden has now been eliminated, and the fee has been reduced to just Rs 500 annually. The main objective of this decision is to connect as many senior citizens as possible with this facility so that they can overcome loneliness and spend time in a healthy social environment.
Due to the improved facilities provided by the Municipal Corporation, the interest of the elderly in this day care centre has rapidly increased. So far, 76 senior citizens from the city have registered. The registration process has been kept simple so that no elderly person faces any inconvenience. The administration expects that this number will increase after the fee reduction.
The day care centre has been developed not just as a sitting area, but as a vibrant hub. In the recreation room here, there are facilities like carrom board, Ludo, and chess for enthusiasts of indoor games. A large-screen smart TV has been installed for news and entertainment, where the elderly collectively enjoy programmes.
Additionally, for literature lovers, there is a vast collection of important religious and spiritual books from Gita Press, as well as other informative books. The elderly who come here share experiences, which reduces their mental stress. Operator Ashok Mishra said that various types of camps are organised here from time to time by the corporation.
“The Senior Citizen Day Care Centre is now becoming a favourite destination for senior citizens. More than 70 senior citizens have registered here. Furthermore, the Municipal Commissioner has made the fee here only Rs 500 annually, said Durgesh Mishra, Additional Municipal Commissioner.