Agartala — Transport and Tourism Minister Sushanta Chowdhury on Friday inaugurated an awareness-cum-interaction camp under the Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana (AVYAY) at Ranirbazar Municipality, underscoring the state government’s commitment to the welfare and dignity of senior citizens.
Launched in April 2021 by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, AVYAY is a comprehensive central scheme aimed at ensuring financial security, healthcare access, protection, and social inclusion for citizens aged 60 years and above. The programme seeks to create an enabling environment where the elderly can live with dignity and independence.
Addressing the gathering, Chowdhury said the initiative reflects the government’s priority to enhance the quality of life for senior citizens. “Our elderly population deserves not only care and protection but also respect and dignity. AVYAY is structured to safeguard their rights and ensure they remain socially connected and empowered,” he said.
On the occasion, the minister also distributed benefits under various state welfare schemes. Under the Mukhyamantri Kanya Bibaha project, cheques worth ₹50,000 were handed over to eligible beneficiaries to support marriage expenses. Additionally, differently-abled individuals received financial assistance of ₹5,000 each under the social pension scheme.
Chowdhury emphasised that inclusive development requires coordinated efforts across sectors. He urged stakeholders to rise above political considerations when addressing welfare concerns. “Supporting senior citizens and vulnerable groups is a shared responsibility. Welfare initiatives must reach every eligible person without discrimination,” he stated.
Officials present at the event informed that similar awareness and outreach camps will soon be organised in other municipalities and urban local bodies across Tripura. The objective is to expand awareness about AVYAY, facilitate beneficiary enrolment, and further strengthen the social security framework for senior citizens in the state.
