Chandigarh Citizens Foundation launches 'Project Sewa' to cater to elderly residents, enhance their engagement
Chandigarh, May 18
Marking a new beginning in its engagement and outreach with the senior citizens of Tricity, the Chandigarh Citizens Foundation has rolled out 'Project Sewa', a one-of-its-kind initiative to address their emotional, mental, social, and physical needs besides extending assistance in medical exigencies.
The CCF launched the initiative on a pilot basis in Sector 27 D, Chandigarh, and roped in Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs), partner welfare associations, and fellow residents for timely assistance.
Elderly citizens above 70 years, staying alone or living with family, will be the key focus of CCF's pioneering initiative, as the latter seeks to ward off their loneliness, enhance community engagement, and also promote their participation in activities throughout the day, including gardening, temple visits, park walks, and more.
Such engagements are expected to support their physical, emotional, and mental health and align with CCF's mission, which revolves around "building a neighbourhood where no elder feels alone, where dignity, companionship and care are part of everyday life."
Under the initiative, about 30 senior citizens in Sector 27 D were visited by the RWA president and volunteers, who counselled them on community engagement.
The CCF team, also comprising eminent doctors, assessed and examined the needs of elderly residents. It then arranged visits by neighbourhood volunteers and family members to the elderly living alone to beat loneliness.
The CCF is also organized around-the-clock "activity sessions," including outdoor and indoor activities where senior citizens can connect, interact, and share lighter moments through a series of sessions, including bhajan singing, cinema songs, current affairs, and fun-filled sports like Chess and puzzling games.
During the park walks and morning sessions, the senior citizens are also encouraged to participate in an array of activities, such as aerobics, yoga, singing, dancing, and fun games, by trained sports volunteers.
A key aspect of the Project Sewa is that all events and programs are organized under the CCF banner, without the involvement of any external agency.
Notably, the CCF was rolled out a year ago in the Tricity to build a more sustainable and inclusive Chandigarh. It was launched by General V.P. Malik (Former Chief of the Army Staff), the president of CCF, and members of the Governing Council, which includes eminent citizens from various walks of life, including retired bureaucrats, industrialists, artistes, and advocates.
— IANS
Reader Comments
As someone who moved to Chandigarh from Canada for work, I've seen how differently we treat elders here vs. back home. This initiative is brilliant—activity sessions, yoga, bhajan singing, all under one roof. Only suggestion: add some mental health counseling for those feeling isolated. Hope RWAs take it seriously.
Chandigarh is the perfect city for this—clean, green, and safe. But let's be honest: many RWAs are just namesake committees. Will they really go door-to-door? The success depends on volunteers, not just banner events. I want to see the visit schedule and follow-ups. Still, thumbs up for starting somewhere 👍
My grandmother in Sector 27 never leaves her house after dark. This project could genuinely change her life—chess, park walks, even just someone to talk to. But why only 70+? There are people in their 60s who are equally lonely. Expand the age group a bit, CCF. Every elder matters ❤️
I volunteer with old age homes in Mohali, and I can tell you: loneliness is a silent killer. Project Sewa needs to be transparent about funding and volunteer training. Also, ensure it's not just a photo-op for RWAs to show on Facebook. Real change requires real commitment, not just schedules. But the idea is gold ✨
General V.P. Malik heading this gives me confidence. The man has served the nation, and now he's serving Chandigarh's elders. But I worry about the 'without external agency' clause—sometimes NGOs bring
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.