Senior citizens constitute an important section and thus their contribution and efforts for the betterment of society should be celebrated. August 21 is observed as World Senior Citizen’s Day to spread awareness about their problems and create sensitivity towards them. Similarly, our constitution and government make constant efforts to make their life easier by granting certain rights and schemes that benefit them however a large section is unaware of these laws.

Today, on the occasion of World Senior Citizen’s Day, let’s take a look at the laws and schemes in place for the group in India.

Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007

Initiated by the Indian Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act was passed by the parliament in December 2007.

This act makes it a legal obligation for the children and heirs to provide maintenance by monthly allowance to senior citizens and parents. It also provides a simple, speedy, and inexpensive mechanism for protecting the life and property of older persons.

 National Policy for Older Persons, 1999

As per rights guaranteed under the National Policy for Older Persons, 1999, all individuals under the senior citizen category are entitled to 30% concessions on Indian railway tickets and a 50% concession for women above 60. Apart from this, a 45% cut is provided on Air India fare and special care units.

There is also a provision for separate senior citizen counters and other services including berth requests waiting facility.

Income Tax relaxations

As per the section 88-B, 88-D, and 88-DDB of the Income Tax Act of India, senior citizens are allowed to claim a discount in tax. The elderly are also entitled to get higher interest on tax saving plans apart from having a wide variety of LIC policies and post office saving schemes to choose from.