Question : National Policy for Senior Citizens

(a) whether the Government is aware of the recent report by the United Nations Population Fund observing that the number of elderly persons is set to grow to 173 million by 2026 and the number of elderly women is more than that of elderly men;

(b) if so, the reaction of the Government thereto along with the increase registered in the population of elderly persons over the years, State-wise;

(c) whether it is a fact that almost 80 per cent of the elderly persons do not have access to basic facilities, health care and support and if so, the reaction of the Government thereto;

(d) whether the Government intends to formulate a national policy for the care and welfare of the elderly single woman and if so, the details thereof; and

(e) the time by which the new National Policy for senior citizen is likely to be finalised and implemented?

MINISTER OF STATE FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE AND EMPOWERMENT
(SHRI VIJAY SAMPLA)

(a): Yes, Madam.
(b): Keeping in view the changing demographic pattern, feminisation of ageing, socio-economic needs of the senior citizens, social value system, advancement in the field of science and technology over the last decade, as well as based on the Report of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), necessary modifications in the draft National Policy for Senior Citizens are being made.
(c) to (e): The draft National Policy for Senior Citizens envisages mainstreaming of issues concerning senior citizens, creating an inclusive barrier-free and age-friendly environment, promoting the concept of ‘Ageing in Place’, providing special attention to the needs of the oldest of the old and elderly women, protecting senior citizens from neglect, abuse or exploitation, health care and support, shelter, financial independence etc. In view of the fact that the Policy encompasses various aspects of welfare of senior citizens and would be finalised shortly.
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