Can MPs Sacrifice Allowances to Fund Free Healthcare for Senior Citizens?

By : Vijesh Nair

Date : 19/12/2025

India's senior citizens may be eligible for free medical insurance as a result of the MPs' allowance compromise. Despite the fact that India's economy is one of the world's fastest-growing, thousands of elderly people continue to struggle for basic healthcare. Because they are unable to pay for medical care when they need it most, many elderly people, particularly those without family support, are left unattended. A growing public debate now raises a powerful question: what if Members of Parliament (MPs) voluntarily compromised a small portion of their allowances to support free medical insurance for senior citizens?

 A Question of Priorities

 Members of Parliament receive salaries, allowances, and benefits funded entirely by taxpayers’ money.  These benefits are designed to help MPs perform their duties effectively, but critics argue that even a modest reduction or voluntary contribution from these allowances could generate a substantial fund for social welfare—particularly for elderly healthcare.

 India has over 140 million senior citizens, and the number is increasing rapidly.  A large section of them lacks comprehensive medical insurance, making hospital visits and long-term treatments financially devastating.

 Small Sacrifice, Big Impact

 If each MP contributed or compromised even a fraction of their monthly allowance, the cumulative amount could be significant enough to:

 Provide free or subsidized medical insurance for unattended senior citizens

 Cover costs of hospitalization, medicines, and emergency care

 Reduce dependency on families or charities for medical treatment

 Improve dignity and quality of life in old age

 Such a move would not require new taxes or additional burden on citizens—only a reallocation of existing public funds.

 A Moral Responsibility

 Elected representatives are often referred to as “public servants.”  Voluntarily contributing toward senior citizen healthcare would reinforce this role and set a powerful moral example.  In a time when citizens are increasingly questioning how taxpayer money is used, it would also help rebuild public trust. Access to healthcare in one's final years should not be a luxury for many elderly people who have contributed to the development of the nation throughout their lives; rather, it should be a right for them. Enhancing Existing Welfare Programs India already has healthcare programs like Ayushman Bharat, but there are still gaps, especially for elderly people who don't meet the eligibility requirements or don't have the right documentation. These programs could be strengthened and expanded to cover more elderly people immediately with additional funding from MP allowances. Public Opinion Is Important This proposal is about collective responsibility and compassionate governance, not targeting or blaming elected officials. It's possible that other sectors will make similar contributions if policymakers take the lead in such social initiatives. Conclusion

 The way a nation treats its weaker members is more important than how it treats its powerful members. Millions of elderly people who are left alone could gain access to life-saving medical insurance if Members of Parliament make the decision to give up a small portion of their allowances. A straightforward, empathetic choice can sometimes be all that is needed to bring about significant change.

Follow us we are trying hard to provide you useful and real content your support will motivate us 

Better India , Responsible India and Developed India