TUESDAY, 8 SEPTEMBER 2026

Restore rail concession to senior citizens


Railway concession for senior citizens was withdrawn during the pandemic under the specious argument that it was necessary to "safeguard" them against Covid. 

The concession was one of the very few privileges which senior citizens enjoyed. The pandemic is now much like a flu but the concession has not been restored. 

Nevertheless, we senior citizens enjoy some unique privileges (sic). We have the privilege of walking on footpaths that end abruptly every 20 feet making it necessary for us to walk on the roads. This gives us the privilege of being hit by any vehicle. 

We have the privilege of standing in common queues for all bank related work. In no other country do senior citizens enjoy this unique privilege.  Husband and wife together have the privilege of investing Rs 60 lakh in Senior Citizen's Saving Scheme -- a great privilege, but how many seniors have the privilege of having Rs 60 lakh in the bank to invest in 5-year fixed deposits?


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Price rise: Food for thought

RODNEY DE SOUZA, Assagao
Published Apr 10, 2023, 11:55 PM IST
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Until a few years ago, the prices of commodities were increased only once a year in February at the time of presentation of the Budget. Today, we see prices are increased frequently and the total increase in a year is substantial.  Take the case of cooking gas, petrol and diesel for example. The prices of these products are increased time and again. Further, not only are additional items brought under the net of GST but also items which are in the lower rate group…

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