Delhi government to launch Vayo Anand scheme for senior citizens

The Delhi government is launching the ‘Vayo Anand’ scheme to improve the well-being and social connectivity of senior citizens. The initiative focuses on establishing recreational centres designed to provide safe, comfortable spaces for elderly residents to socialize and remain active.

These centres will offer various amenities, including indoor games like carrom and ludo, yoga and meditation sessions, and access to computers, televisions, books, and magazines. To support physical and mental health, the program will include monthly medical camps, nutritional counseling, and activities such as painting, pottery, and storytelling. The government also plans to organize outdoor trips and celebrate national and international observances.

Operational guidelines specify that centres should ideally be located on ground floors or in buildings with lift access to ensure accessibility. They are expected to operate at least five days a week for a minimum of seven hours daily. To encourage community involvement, the government will provide financial assistance of Rs 2.40 lakh annually (or Rs 20,000 per month) to eligible centres that maintain at least 200 members aged 60 and above.