Government is taking measures for senior citizens:Begum Zakia

Lahore: Advisor to Chief Minister Punjab, Begum Zakia Shahnawaz has said that the government is taking measures for the social protection of senior citizens.

She was addressing a advisory workshop held on the topic of Senior Citizens Bill under the aegis of “Jaag Welfare Movement” at Pearl Continental Hotel, here today, which was attended by the people from all walks of life. Begum Zakia Shahnawaz said that the senior citizens and aged people have great regard in our society. She said that the government is fully aware of the problems of all the segments of the society and continuously trying to resolve them. Begum Zakia Shahnawaz said that after approval of the bill by the assembly, the senior citizens will be given various facilities including concession in fare, provision of medicines, separate medical wards, financial assistance, construction of houses, free entry at recreational places, museums and libraries.

In their address, the speakers said that with regard to population Pakistan is including in those 15 countries where more than 10 million people are above 60 years of age. The number of senior citizens will cross the figure of one billion by 2050. She said that setting up of a welfare council for senior citizens is utmost necessary in which all departments should be included. She said that it is the right of the senior citizens over the society and the government that while recognizing their services they should be provided facilities.

Later, Begum Zakia Shahnawaz attended advisory session for setting up of provincial commission for women in Hospitality Inn under the aegis of Aurat Foundation and Action Aid. She said that more than 85% women package has been implemented as a result of which pleasant change is being seen in the society. She said that this package is a guarantee to social, legal and economic protection of the women. She said that provincial commission for women would soon be set up with the consultation of the concerned departments.