In a major step towards enhancing social welfare, the Himachal Pradesh government is all set to launch the ‘Rogi Mitra Yojana’, a dedicated healthcare initiative focused on the well-being of senior citizens. CM Sukhu announced the scheme while presiding over the state-level function of the International Day of Older Persons-2025 at the historic Ridge in Shimla. The new scheme aims to provide regular health check-ups and medical support to the elderly, reinforcing the state’s commitment to their dignity and care. The Chief Minister highlighted that over 6.71 lakh senior citizens in Himachal Pradesh are already receiving monthly pensions ranging from ₹1,000 to ₹1,700, irrespective of income status. Men aged 60–69 receive ₹1,000, while women in the same age group receive ₹1,500. Citizens above 70 years are granted ₹1,700 monthly. Under the Indira Gandhi Pyari Behna Sukh Samman Nidhi Yojna, over 2.37 lakh women also receive ₹1,500 pension monthly. In a further move to ensure senior-friendly living spaces, the government is constructing the ‘Sukh Aashray Parisar’ in Jwalamukhi at an estimated cost of ₹100 crore, aimed at offering comprehensive facilities and comfort for elderly residents. CM Sukhu also reiterated the government’s broader social agenda, which includes ₹3 lakh housing assistance to single and widowed women, educational and financial support for orphaned children (granted the status of “Children of the State”), and significant reforms in education and healthcare infrastructure. He noted that robotic surgeries have already been initiated at Tanda and Chamiana medical colleges at subsidized rates, and old equipment in government medical colleges is being upgraded at a cost of ₹300 crore. The Chief Minister concluded by reaffirming the government’s unwavering focus on inclusive growth, social equity, and care-driven governance, particularly for the state’s most vulnerable groups.
