Chief minister Tirath Singh Rawat inaugurated the senior citizens national helpline Elder Line 14567 for Uttarakhand at a programme held here on Thursday. This helpline has been launched by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment along with Uttarakhand government for the welfare of senior citizens. Speaking on the occasion, the chief minister said that in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabha Vishwas, this helpline will prove effective in resolving the problems faced by the elderly.

Stating that all should come forward to help the aged people, the chief minister said that public awareness is very important for this purpose. “A large number of senior citizens are leading lonely lives in the distant and mountainous regions of the state.

We have to reach all of them and solve their problems. It is also vital to raise public awareness at the village level. The information about various schemes and programmes being implemented for the welfare of senior citizens should also reach the village level. I am hopeful that the 14567 helpline will prove useful in resolving the problems of the elderly and also provide emotional support to them,” said Rawat.

Social Welfare minister Yashpal Arya said that this helpline will enable the elderly to get their problems solved while sitting at home. This is not just a call centre but rather a connect centre in the real sense, he said. The minister also directed the departmental officials to regularly monitor this service.

Social welfare additional secretary Ramvilas Yadav informed that this helpline will be accessible from 8 AM to 8 PM and provide necessary assistance and services to the aged citizens. Principal secretary L Fanai and other officials were also present on the occasion.