India in collaboration with the International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS), has unveiled the highly anticipated “India Ageing Report 2023.” This comprehensive report offers crucial insights into the challenges, opportunities, and institutional responses concerning elderly care in India as the country grapples with a significant demographic shift toward an ageing population.
The report was jointly released by Mr. Saurabh Garg, Secretary, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (Government of India), and Ms. Andrea M. Wojnar, UNFPA India Representative, and Country Director Bhutan.
The “India Ageing Report 2023” represents an extensive examination of the living conditions and welfare of older individuals in India. It leverages the latest data available from sources such as the Longitudinal Ageing Survey in India (LASI) 2017–18, Census of India, Population Projections by the Government of India (2011–2036), and World Population Prospects 2022 by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs to provide an up-to-date perspective.
“As India ages, it is imperative to ensure that our elderly population has access to the care and support they need to live healthy, dignified, and fulfilling lives,” emphasized Mr. Saurabh Garg, Secretary, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (Government of India). He further added, “The India Ageing Report 2023 provides a valuable roadmap for achieving this goal, and I urge all stakeholders to work together to implement its recommendations.”
Ms. Andrea M. Wojnar, UNFPA India Representative, and Country Director Bhutan, commended the report, stating, “This comprehensive report is a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, program managers, and all stakeholders involved in elder care. Older persons have contributed significantly to society, and they deserve nothing less than our best efforts to ensure their well-being.”
The report’s key findings encompass a range of analyses related to elderly well-being, including:
Enhancement of Geriatric Care: Addressing the unique healthcare needs of seniors is a priority, with efforts to improve geriatric care.
Government Initiatives: Numerous government schemes and policies are in place to address the health, financial empowerment, and capacity building needs of the elderly population.
Community-Based Initiatives: Community-based organizations are actively engaged in digital empowerment through computer and internet usage sessions.
Policy Shaping: Ministerial committees are dedicated to shaping policies aimed at enhancing the welfare of the elderly.
Corporate Efforts: Various corporate initiatives focus on promoting joyful aging, providing social assistance, managing old age homes, and raising awareness about elder abuse through campaigns.
The ‘India Ageing Report 2023’ serves as a valuable resource for policymakers, scholars, program managers, and all stakeholders involved in elder care. As India’s population ages, ensuring the well-being and dignity of its elderly citizens has become an increasingly important societal goal. This report provides critical insights and recommendations to guide the nation in achieving this objective.