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Picture Courtesy:  THE HINDU

Context:

The Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment is drafting a new national policy for senior citizens.

India's changing demographics

Growing Elderly Population => India is currently in a phase of demographic transition. The number of senior citizens is projected to increase significantly in the coming years.  

From Dividend to Dependency => The "demographic dividend" refers to the economic growth potential that arises when the working-age population is larger than the dependent population (children and the elderly). However, as the population ages, this dividend will diminish and could turn into a "demographic headwind" if not managed properly.

Projected Numbers => In the 2011 Census, senior citizens (aged 60 and above) constituted 8.23% of the population. This is projected to rise to about 12.16% in 2026. By 2047, it is estimated that 20% of India's population will be senior citizens.

Key Areas of Focus of the New Policy

Financial Insecurity => A significant number of senior citizens lack a stable source of income after retirement and are financially dependent on their families. Many are not covered by adequate pension schemes.

Health and Healthcare => The elderly are more susceptible to chronic illnesses. Access to affordable and quality healthcare, especially for geriatric diseases, is a major concern.

Social Isolation and Loneliness => With the breakdown of the traditional joint family system and increased urbanization, many senior citizens experience loneliness and social isolation.

Lack of Accessible Infrastructure => Public spaces and transportation are often not senior-citizen friendly, restricting their mobility.

Digital Divide => Many senior citizens struggle to use digital technologies, which can limit their access to essential services that are increasingly moving online.

Key Proposals Discussed in Policy

Digital Inclusion => Initiatives to bring more senior citizens into the digital fold.

Institutionalizing NGOs and Senior Citizen Associations => Government is considering giving a more formal role to NGOs and associations in policy formulation, implementation, and providing feedback.

Grievance Redressal Mechanism => Establishing a robust system to address complaints of elder abuse and neglect is a key priority.

Minimum Standards for Old Age Homes => To implement and enforce minimum standards for care in old age homes and other senior care institutions.

Promoting Community Engagement and Intergenerational Bonding => Measures to encourage more interaction between different age groups to combat loneliness among the elderly.

Existing Government Initiatives for Senior Citizens

National Action Plan for Welfare of Senior Citizens (NAPSrC) => This is an umbrella program launched in 2020 that covers various schemes for the welfare of senior citizens. It focuses on financial security, food, healthcare, and a life of dignity.

Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana (RVY) => Launched in 2017, it provides free assisted-living devices (like walking sticks, hearing aids, wheelchairs) to elderly persons belonging to the BPL category and those with a monthly income of up to ₹15,000 who suffer from age-related disabilities.

Integrated Programme for Senior Citizens (IPSrC) => Provides financial assistance to NGOs for running and maintaining old age homes, continuous care homes, and mobile medicare units.  

Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007 => This act makes it a legal obligation for children and relatives to provide maintenance to senior citizens. It also includes provisions for the protection of their life and property.

Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana (PMVVY) => A pension scheme for senior citizens that provides an assured return. 

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Source: 

THE HINDU