BMC Budget 2023-24 - Kabhi Kushi Kabhi Gaam for Senior Citizens
Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) Commissioner I.S. Chahal presented Budget with wide range of announcement for Infrastructure development, Education and Welfare activities.
They have considered some of demands submitted by JAC and other social organisations.
Kushi Moments
There are some good initiative for Senior Citizens like:
Construction of 9 Storey Old Age Home at Goregaon East with 14.23 crore - 6 crore provision made this year budget
Under Social Impact initiative - Senior Citizens has been recognised as weaker sections.
One time funding for differently able Senior citizens
Training of Caretaker and Helpers for Senior Citizens
Financial Help of 11.35 crore for purchase of various equipments and leisure facilities to aid entertainment centre for Senior Citizens
But there are Gaam moments
No mention of BMC Senior Citizens policy 2013 - no plan of action, no budgetary provision
No mention of Transport facilities/ concession for Seniors
No mention of Day care, Dementia/ Alzheimer's care
No special scheme for Senior citizens Health care and Diagnosis
No mention of 3 important World days of Senior Citizens
No mention of Mobile clinic for Seniors
No mention of Pension and Midday meal for EWS Seniors.
Not allocating 10% of total Budget to Senior citizens
But BMC still can make it Happy Beginning by doing certain provisions :
Make Special provision for Seniors in Apla Dawakhana
Introduction of Geriatric course in Medical college and Nursing college
Create Geriatric wards in Municipal Hospitals
Special provisions for Seniors in Arogyam Kutumbam community base scheme with regards to screening, awareness, treatment etc
Make a plan and facilities for Dementia/ Alzheimer's as 5% Seniors suffer with it
To introduce Intergeneration syllabus, projects in Schools
Hope BMC with its huge budget and progressive approach will give Dignity to 15Lakhs Senior Citizens
