Govt may change national policy on older persons

Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Thaawar Chand Gehlot has indicated changes in policy framework of the national policy on older persons. He said there is a proposal for suitable revision in order to cover the present and emerging issues.

Gehlot was speaking at the “Jeevema Sharadaha Shatam (May we live for 100 years-Active & Healthy Ageing)”  organised on Thursday by the National Institute of Social Defence, Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, in association with Anugraha, a Regional Resource & Training Centre on Ageing. 

The minister further added that because of traditional values prevalent in Indian society, the importance and utility of the senior citizens is being adequately recognised by society but still, there has been a perceptible decline and the physical and psychological effects of ageing process makes the elderly persons vulnerable to several disadvantages.

Present on the occasion were Sudhir Bhargav, secretary, Social Justice & Empowerment; Dr Aabha Chaudhary, chairperson, Anugraha and officers from the National Institute of Social Defence and Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment.

In the Workshop on healthy ageing, well known and eminent doctors will share their knowledge. Key speakers are: Dr K K Sethi, Cardiologist, Delhi Heart & Lung Institute, Dr Talat Halim, Director, Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Dr Ramesh, Arya Vaidya Sala. 

There was display of old age care related services, publications and information material on ageing. Health check up and consultation by leading hospitals of India were also organised.