Dehradun – The Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, Pushkar Singh Dhami, marked the International Day of Older Persons with a ceremony at the Himalayan Cultural Centre in Neembuwala, Dehradun, on Thursday. The event featured the launch of a new civil‑services coaching programme specially designed for candidates with disabilities, and a tribute to 23 senior citizens who have excelled in various fields.
Four young talents who topped the essay and painting contests were also presented with awards.
₹147.34 Crore Disbursed in a Single Click
Using a streamlined one‑click payment portal, the Chief Minister cleared September’s pension dues for 9,93,886 beneficiaries, amounting to a total of ₹147.34 crore, 53 thousand.
In addition, Dhami reaffirmed his commitment to senior‑citizen welfare by taking a pledge, and he planted a sapling under the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign on the venue’s grounds.
“Senior Citizens Are the Protective Shield of Families”
Addressing the gathering, Dhami extended heartfelt wishes to the elderly and prayed for their continued health and longevity. He highlighted the pivotal role seniors play in providing emotional stability, transmitting values, and acting as a “protective shield” for their families, fostering discipline, affection, and strong bonds across generations.
“Our senior citizens are the bedrock of the household, imparting wisdom and nurturing the next generation,” Dhami said.
The programme aims to empower persons with disabilities by offering tailored mentorship, study material, and mock examinations, thereby widening their access to prestigious civil‑service positions.
