A committee representing senior citizens is set to formally present a proposal to the government, advocating for a 20 percent discount on essential goods and services in the upcoming 2026 National Budget. Sandeep Narayan Singh, a businessman and member of the committee, emphasized the need for this measure during the public budget submission process, pointing out that many countries recognize the vital contributions of their older citizens to national development.
Singh highlighted the increasing financial strain that rising living costs are placing on elderly individuals and expressed the committee’s intent to seek additional support measures to assist this demographic. He acknowledged previous criticism surrounding the Senior Citizens Day event, but noted that the strong public turnout and emotional engagement reflected a widespread recognition of the issues faced by seniors.
He asserted that failing to recognize senior citizens as a distinct group could jeopardize the trust these individuals have placed in the society they contributed to throughout their lives. “Our budget submission to the government of the day will be that we allow senior citizens to avail of a 20% discount on various essential supplies,” Singh stated. He referenced similar initiatives in other countries as a model for Fiji.
Meanwhile, Maciu Nalumisa, the Minister for Housing and Local Government, reiterated the Coalition Government’s commitment to the elderly. He described senior citizens as the bedrock of Fiji’s communities and institutions. During the recent celebrations for International Day for Senior Citizens, Nalumisa asserted ongoing efforts to enhance healthcare access, bolster social protection, and create more avenues for older residents to participate actively in community life, including initiatives to make public spaces more accommodating for seniors.
He also urged families and younger generations to nurture intergenerational relationships, highlighting the immense value that the wisdom and experience of senior citizens bring to society. This collaborative approach aims to not only support the elderly but also to harness their knowledge for the benefit of all.