DW BUREAU / Shimla Ensuring the welfare of senior citizens of the state, the Himachal Pradesh government has started Panchavati scheme, wherein parks and gardens with necessary facilities are being developed in each development block for them. An official spokesman here said that keeping in mind the health requirements of senior citizens, these parks are being constructed under MNREGA by the Rural Development department in atleast one bigha area in different areas of the state with an estimated cost of Rs 8,75,000. The construction cost can be increased depending on the geographical location of the area. The ayurvedic, medicinal plants are being planted in these parks, which will have recreational equipment and walking paths along with availability of other basic facilities for entertainment of the elderly. Apart from this, jogging treks, special places for yoga, meditation classes, toilet facilities and solar lights are also being provided in each park. The spokesman said the services of the technical wing of the Rural Development department are being taken for construction works in these parks in rural areas. These parks will be maintained through the Gram Panchayats. As many as 198 Panchvati parks are being constructed in the financial year 2020-21 with an expenditure of Rs 965 lakh. About 217 locations have been identified for construction of Panchavati parks in the state in the next financial year. Presently the work on 70 Panchavati parks is in progress involving an expenditure of Rs 157 lakh in the state. The spokesman said the Panchavati Upvan Bechar Ka Bagh, constructed in Gram Panchayat Mahipur of development block Nahan in Sirmaur district has become a center of attraction for people of all age groups. This Panchavati park is spread over 120 square meters and has a lawn, jogging track and separate play area for children with suitable seating area for the elderly. The park has also been fenced. The slogans with messages of environmental protection are making people aware of environmental protection in the park. The spokesman said the state government has always laid emphasis on rural-oriented policies to ensure rapid development of rural areas of the state. The Panchvati parks will cater to the physical, emotional and social needs of the elderly people, which is an important part of social development. (editor@dailyworld.in)