D Sivanandan and Priya Dutt launch senior citizen helpline

May 17, 2010 - PRLog -- In order to provide some relief to the senior citizens of Mumbai, The Nargis Dutt Memorial Charitable Trust along with Dial 1298 for Ambulance launched a 24 x 7 Senior Citizen's Helpline at a function held on 10th May which was attended by Chief Guest Ms. Asha Parekh and Guest of Honour Shri D. Sivanandan, Mrs. Priya Dutt, Honorable Member of Parliament and Ms. Sweta Mangal, CEO of Dial 1298 for Ambulance service. Around 200 people attened the programme.

The 1298 Senior Citizen Helpline (Referral Service) will work closely with prominent NGOs working with senior citizens to act as a bridge between a senior citizen and these NGOs. Any senior citizen requiring assistance can dial 1298 from landline or mobile which will connect them to a counselor who will be available 24X7 to assist them.

Noted Priya, "the now fading joint family system and the Indian cultural values that preached reverence and service towards the elders had served a protective and secure net for the elderly. The advent of nuclear families and other factors like children migrating to cities or abroad for better career opportunities have brought out a range of issues like insecurity, loneliness and lack of companionship leaving the elders more vulnerable in their twilight years. Coping with old age is becoming increasingly difficult, especially in cities like Mumbai. "

Presently India has the 2nd largest population of Senior Citizens in the globe. According to UN by 2050 the population of 60 plus in India would likely go up to 20%. DSivanandan was happy to be present at the occasion and applauded the initiative