On 3 December 2024, SARVAM, Puducherry, through PU CRS 91.2 FM, conducted an impactful awareness programme titled “Empowering the Elderly through Awareness on GOVT AVYAY Schemes” at Gopalan Kadai, Pondicherry. The programme aimed to inform and educate elderly individuals about various government initiatives under the Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana (AVYAY), including Elderline and the Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana (RVY).
This initiative, part of the weekly narrowcasting efforts of Pudiya Udayam 91.2 CR, was organised in collaboration with CRA-PAN India and sponsored by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. The programme had 30 participants, all above 60 years of age, who engaged in activities designed to build awareness about government welfare schemes aimed at improving their quality of life.
The session commenced with an engaging ice-breaking activity followed by a pre-test questionnaire to evaluate participants’ existing knowledge of the schemes. The trainer then provided a detailed overview of the central government-funded programmes, explaining the accessibility and benefits of Elderline, RVY, and AVYAY. Particular emphasis was placed on services such as helplines for elderly care and the free provision of assistive devices, including eyeglasses, hearing aids, walkers, and wheelchairs, to enhance mobility and independence.
The interactive nature of the session encouraged participants to ask questions, clarify doubts, and share personal experiences. Many expressed gratitude for the programme’s clarity and its focus on their well-being, especially given their limited access to education and information in rural settings. They enthusiastically noted the helpline number and committed to sharing the information with others in their communities.
Post-test questionnaires revealed significant improvement in the participants’ understanding of the schemes. The programme concluded with a warm session of tea and snacks, leaving the attendees motivated and appreciative of the Central Government's commitment to elderly welfare.
PU CR 91.2 FM extended heartfelt thanks to the participants, CRA-PAN India, and the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment for supporting this innovative approach to outreach via community radio. The organisers reaffirmed their dedication to bridging information gaps and empowering rural elderly populations through such meaningful initiatives.
