Who will take care of the senior citizens in India?

I wish to raise concerns about the treatment and welfare of senior citizens in India. The growing population of elderly individuals and their significant voting power should indeed be taken into consideration by the government and society as a whole. It is important to address the challenges and difficulties faced by senior citizens and provide them with appropriate support and facilities.

Many developed countries prioritize the well-being of senior citizens and have comprehensive social security systems in place to ensure their care and dignity. In India, however, there are instances where senior citizens may not receive adequate attention or support.

Issues such as limited access to loans, reduced eligibility for medical insurance, lack of employment opportunities, discontinuation of benefits like railway discounts, and low interest rates on savings can create difficulties for senior citizens who rely on these services for a secure and comfortable life.

It is essential for the government to recognize the contributions made by senior citizens throughout their lives and take proactive steps to address their needs. This could include the implementation of policies and schemes that cater specifically to the well-being of senior citizens, ensuring their financial security, healthcare access, social integration, and overall quality of life.

Efforts should be made to enhance the social security system, improve healthcare facilities, create employment opportunities for senior citizens who are willing and able to work, and ensure their rights and dignity are protected. Collaboration between the government, civil society organizations, and communities can help create a supportive environment for senior citizens and promote their active participation and inclusion in society.

According to the Report of the Technical Group on Population Projections for India and States 2011-2036, there are nearly 138 million (13.8 Crore) elderly persons in India in 2021 (67 million males and 71 million females) and it is further expected to increase by around 56 million elderly persons in 2031. If they have around 14 crores of voting power, why are the governments ignoring them?

Financial stability is not the only problem that the elderly face today. Due to a lack of employment opportunities in rural areas, many youths have migrated to the cities of India or abroad for work, thus leaving their elderly parents at home. These elders have no one to take care of them and mostly live alone, often suffering from ill health or inability to move around. Seniors aged 60 years or more are most concerned about loneliness and isolation, which can lead to depression or other mental disorders.

Overall, there is a need for greater attention and consideration for the well-being of senior citizens in India. By recognizing their valuable contributions and providing them with appropriate support, society can ensure that senior citizens can enjoy a dignified and fulfilling life in their golden years…….

Authored by: 

Arvind Sharma, Dharamsala.