The approval of a comprehensive relief package by the outgoing Prime Minister Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain is commendable and most welcome. His recommendation to educate the general public to accord respect to the seniors is also heartening and in keeping with the teachings of Islam to show respect to the elders.
Immediate steps therefore be taken to do the following for the senior citizens.
-- Senior identity cards be provided.
Special discounts be provided on production of seniors identity cards:-
-- 50% of the bus fares
-- 75% of the train fares
-- 25% of the air fares
-- 50% of the admission charges for all entertainment programmes.
-- Refund of GST upto Rs 5,000 per annum.
-- 30% concession on medical charges.
-- Special counters be set up at the airport, railway stations, hospitals etc.
-- Special seating arrangement at public places and waiting rooms at bus stands and railway stations.
Let us accord respect to our elders now. In doing so we shall be respected when we come of age.
(The writer is President, Senior Citizens Forum)