The Uttar Pradesh government announced on Monday that it is making arrangements to facilitate the participation of 2,000 senior citizens in the Sangam Snan (holy dip) by the conclusion of the Maha Kumbh.
As part of its efforts, the Social Welfare Department has set up a special pandal along the banks of the Sangam in collaboration with the National Medicos Organization and the Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO). This initiative aims to provide essential support to underprivileged groups, particularly senior citizens and those with disabilities.
One of the significant components of this initiative is the Shravan Kumbh, which has been assisting thousands of people with hearing impairments by offering exams and providing assistive devices, according to the government’s statement.
"For the first time in Maha Kumbh, the Yogi Adityanath government has launched a special camp for the elderly and hearing-impaired. This camp, set up by the Social Welfare Department, offers free tests and assistive devices to those in need," the statement added.
The government highlighted that this initiative has significantly contributed to the welfare of the elderly, especially those from state-run old-age homes, by ensuring they have access to vital services during the Kumbh Mela. To accommodate elderly devotees, a 100-bed ashram has been constructed in the Kumbh area, offering special arrangements for them to stay comfortably and participate in the religious activities, including the Sangam Snan.
To date, more than 500 senior citizens from districts such as Mirzapur, Gonda, Siddharthnagar, Bhadohi, Kaushambi, Hardoi, Sitapur, and Lucknow have already taken part in the Maha Kumbh. The government plans to facilitate the Amrit Snan for 2,000 elderly devotees by February 26.
Minister of State for Social Welfare, Asim Arun, stressed the government's continuous efforts to ensure the safety, health, and dignity of senior citizens.
“The double-engine government is continuously working for the safety, respect, and health of senior citizens across the state,” he said.
The Maha Kumbh, which began on January 13, is set to continue until February 26 at the Triveni Sangam, where millions of pilgrims are gathering daily. By Monday evening, nearly 35 crore devotees had visited the Sangam, and the government expects the number to exceed 50 crore by February 26, with two major bathing dates, Maghi Purnima and Mahashivratri, expected to attract even more people.