La Paz, November 17 (NNN-RHC)-- Bolivian President Evo Morales has launched a new program to grant a new bonus to the nation's elderly who are eligible for pensions. The program will benefit about one million people.

Morales explained that the amount would be small and insisted on the importance of maintaining economic growth so each Bolivian can increasingly benefit from the country's revenues.

Each retired will receive a bonus of 260 bolivianos ($38) while those already receiving pensions will receive an additional 200 bolivianos ($29).

During the inauguration, the national leader of retirees, Carlos Loza, thanked the Head of State and explained that Morales' government has been the only one interested in improving the condition of aged adults in Bolivia's history.

The pension scheme Dignity Rent was approved in 2008 by the Morales administration and establishes benefits for all Bolivian citizens aged 60 and above.

People receive $345 equivalent a year, if they do not receive pensions and $258 if they have a retirement pension. The new social program is in addition to the regular pension.