GOVT REMAINED MUM ON SENIOR CITIZENS WELFARE

The Union Minister of Social Justice & Empowerment Shri Mukul Wasnik addressed the 10th Editors’ Conference on Social Sector Issues (ECCSI) here today.


6. Senior Citizens

6.1 As per 2001 Census, total population of Senior Citizens (60+) was 7.7 crore, which is projected to increase to 17.3 crore in 2026, and a corresponding rise in its share from 7.5% to 12.4% of the total Population. Ensuring that they not merely live longer, but lead a secure, dignified and productive life is a major challenge. A National Policy on Older Persons (NPOP) was announced in January 1999. As ten years have passed since then, we have decided to undertake its comprehensive review in the coming months.