In the developed countries of the West and East senior citizens are treated with much care and concern giving cognizance to their special life circumstances. Identity Card is issued by almost all western countries and the card entitles senior citizens to special concessions and benefits.

For the first time in India an all-purpose ID card was issued by the Chief Minister of Maharashtra in a function organised by Dignity Foundation and Rotary Club of Bombay Pier scheduled for on Oct 1,but later postponed at the last minute to December 8, 2001 at the Chowpathy sands.

In a meeting with the Chief Minister Dignity Foundation functionaries had impressed on him on the need to introduce the ID card with a view to establish the senior citizens' identity required in many places. The card will also serve as a medical aid card, a necessity in these days of violence and attacks. The Chief Secretary had directions from the CM to examine and follow up the idea. Under his instructions, the Ministry of Social Welfare arranged for the issue of ID card against payment of Rs. 30.

Administrative charge has been vested in Dignity Foundation and FESCOM - two NGOs who took the initiative to work for the issue of cards.

Celebrating this "victory" the senior citizens came together for a 2000-strong Rally starting with the NOVARTIS WALK on Marine Drive for the Elders Day on Dec 8th starting at 4.30 p.m. at the promenade opposite Javahar Bal Bhavan walking to Chowpathy sands.

Since much of their physical security rests with the Police, the senior citizens seized the occasion to tie a "Suraksha Bandhan" to Police Officers invited from all the 79 Police Stations in Mumbai. Police Commissioner Shri. M N Singh (C.P) was present to provide the lead to the campaign for more security.

ID CARD CENTRES

(Not For Printing And Submitting)