In a landmark event that resonated across the nation, President Droupadi Murmu graced the ‘Ageing with Dignity’ initiative at Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre on May 2, 2025, underscoring India’s renewed commitment to the welfare of its senior citizens.
Organized by the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, the event marked the launch of several transformative initiatives, including a dedicated senior citizens welfare portal, the virtual inauguration of new senior citizen homes, the distribution of aids and assistive devices, and a key Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment and the Brahmakumaris organization. President Murmu’s stirring address called for a national movement to cherish, respect, and empower India’s elderly, highlighting their irreplaceable role as both a link to the past and guides to the future.
One of the standout features of the new Senior Citizens Welfare Portal is its focus on digital literacy for the elderly. Recognizing that many seniors may not be comfortable with technology, the government has partnered with NGOs and local community centers to conduct digital training workshops. These workshops aim to familiarize seniors with the portal’s features, from accessing healthcare information to applying for welfare benefits online. The initiative also includes a helpline and video tutorials in multiple Indian languages, making it more accessible. By empowering seniors to navigate the digital world, the government is not only improving service delivery but also fostering a sense of independence among the elderly.
India’s Senior Citizens: A Rapidly Growing Demographic
India’s elderly population is expanding at an unprecedented rate. According to recent government estimates, there are currently over 104 million people aged 60 and above, comprising more than 10% of the country’s population-a figure projected to reach 158 million by 2025 and 319 million by 2050. This demographic shift brings both opportunities and challenges, necessitating robust policy interventions for health, financial security, and social inclusion. The ‘Ageing with Dignity’ event comes at a crucial time, as the nation grapples with the realities of nuclear families, urban migration, and the erosion of traditional caregiving structures.
The success of ‘Ageing with Dignity’ depends heavily on community participation and the involvement of civil society organizations. Groups like HelpAge India, Dignity Foundation, and the newly partnered Brahmakumaris have played a crucial role in advocating for elder rights, running helplines, and organizing recreational and wellness programs. The government’s new push for volunteerism encourages younger generations to spend time with elders, participate in intergenerational dialogues, and assist with daily tasks. Such efforts not only alleviate loneliness but also bridge the generational divide, fostering empathy and mutual respect.
President Murmu’s Vision: Dignity, Respect, and Inclusion
Addressing the gathering, President Murmu emphasized that respecting elders is an integral part of Indian culture and a collective responsibility. She highlighted the strong emotional bonds between children and grandparents, noting that elders serve as emotional anchors in families. “Elder people are a link to the past and also guides to the future. We should value their guidance and enjoy their valuable company,” she declared. The President called for a national commitment to ensure that seniors live their old age with dignity, purpose, and engagement, expressing satisfaction over government initiatives that empower the elderly and promote their active participation in society.
Murmu also voiced concern over reports of misbehavior with older adults, urging children and families to uphold the cultural values of respect and care. She lauded the government’s expansion of health insurance under Ayushman Bharat and other welfare schemes, stressing the need for every citizen to cherish the wisdom, presence, and companionship of the elderly.
To address the unique health needs of seniors, the government is scaling up geriatric clinics in district hospitals and launching more mobile medical units in rural and semi-urban areas. These clinics offer specialized care for age-related conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, and dementia, while mobile units bring essential services to seniors who are homebound or live in remote villages. Telemedicine platforms are also being integrated into the welfare portal, allowing seniors to consult doctors from the comfort of their homes. These healthcare innovations are expected to significantly reduce the burden on families and improve health outcomes for the elderly.
7 Key Initiatives Unveiled: A New Era for Senior Welfare
1. Senior Citizens Welfare Portal
The newly launched portal is envisioned as a one-stop digital platform for the elderly, providing access to information about welfare schemes, healthcare, legal rights, and re-employment opportunities. It aims to bridge the digital divide and empower seniors to navigate government services independently.
2. Virtual Inauguration of Senior Citizen Homes
President Murmu virtually inaugurated several senior citizen homes, expanding safe and supportive living options for the elderly, especially those without family support. These homes are designed to offer not just shelter but also medical care, recreational activities, and social engagement.
3. Distribution of Aids and Assistive Devices
Aids and assistive devices-including hearing aids, walking sticks, and wheelchairs-were distributed to enhance the mobility and independence of elderly citizens, particularly those from economically weaker backgrounds.
4. MoU with Brahmakumaris Organization
The agreement with Brahmakumaris will promote holistic well-being, spiritual health, and substance abuse awareness among the elderly. This collaboration is expected to extend the reach of the government’s Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (Drug-Free India Movement) and other wellness initiatives.
5. Strengthening Healthcare Access
The government continues to expand geriatric healthcare through Ayushman Bharat, mobile Medicare units, physiotherapy clinics, and continuous care homes for seniors with Alzheimer’s and dementia.
6. Financial Security and Livelihood Initiatives
Schemes like the Senior Able Citizens for Re-Employment in Dignity (SACRED) portal and elderly self-help groups are being promoted to provide financial independence and meaningful engagement for seniors.
7. Promoting Social Inclusion and Silver Economy
The government is encouraging the development of a “silver economy,” supporting elder-friendly products, services, and community engagement programs to ensure seniors remain active contributors to society.
Challenges Facing India’s Elderly: The Road Ahead
Despite these promising initiatives, India’s senior citizens continue to face significant challenges. Financial insecurity remains a major concern, with 78% of the elderly living without pension coverage and many lacking adequate savings or access to formal retirement benefits. Healthcare access is another pressing issue, as only 18% of seniors are covered by health insurance, and many struggle with chronic illnesses, high out-of-pocket expenses, and limited geriatric care facilities.
Social isolation and loneliness are growing problems, exacerbated by the decline of joint families and the migration of younger generations to urban centers. Mental health issues, including depression and anxiety, are often overlooked, highlighting the need for increased awareness, counseling services, and community-based support.
Recognizing that many seniors wish to remain economically active, the SACRED (Senior Able Citizens for Re-Employment in Dignity) portal facilitates re-skilling and job opportunities for retirees. The platform connects experienced seniors with companies seeking part-time consultants, mentors, or trainers. Several state governments are also piloting microcredit schemes and small business grants for elderly entrepreneurs. These economic empowerment initiatives not only provide financial security but also help seniors maintain a sense of purpose and self-worth.
Cultural Values and Policy Gaps: Bridging the Divide
President Murmu’s call to action is rooted in India’s cultural values, where elders have traditionally been revered as sources of wisdom and guidance. However, rapid urbanization and changing family structures have weakened these bonds, necessitating a stronger policy framework and community engagement. The Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, along with various central and state schemes, provides a legal foundation, but implementation gaps and lack of awareness remain hurdles to be overcome.
India’s approach to elder welfare is increasingly being recognized on the global stage. The United Nations has lauded India’s efforts in aligning with the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing, which emphasizes dignity, security, and participation for older persons. The partnership with organizations like Brahmakumaris also highlights India’s unique integration of spiritual well-being in elder care. As other countries grapple with ageing populations, India’s model of combining policy, technology, and community engagement offers valuable lessons and positions the nation as a leader in senior citizen welfare.
A National Commitment to Ageing with Dignity
President Murmu’s message is clear: the well-being of senior citizens is not just a governmental responsibility but a collective national duty. She urged all citizens to honor the presence of elders, value their guidance, and ensure their happiness and inclusion in all aspects of life. The event’s initiatives reflect a holistic approach, combining digital empowerment, healthcare, financial security, and spiritual well-being.
As India stands on the threshold of a demographic transformation, the ‘Ageing with Dignity’ event serves as a clarion call for renewed respect, care, and policy innovation for the country’s elderly. The steps taken today will determine whether the nation can truly ensure that its seniors live their golden years with dignity, purpose, and joy.
To further safeguard senior citizens, the government is reviewing amendments to the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007, to impose stricter penalties for neglect and abuse. Advocacy groups are also pushing for the establishment of dedicated elder courts to expedite cases related to property disputes, financial fraud, and harassment. These legal reforms aim to ensure that seniors have swift access to justice, reinforcing the message that their rights and dignity are non-negotiable in India’s evolving social fabric.
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