The President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu graced an event ‘Ageing with Dignity - Initiatives for the Welfare of Senior Citizens’, at Rashtrapati Bhawan Cultural Centre today (Rashtrapati Bhawan Press Release: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2126092). The event organised by the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment witnessed the launch of the senior citizens welfare portal, the virtual inauguration of senior citizens homes, the distribution of Aids and Assistive devices and the signing of an MoU between the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment and Brahmakumaris organization. It brought together senior citizens, social organisations, school children, and spiritual leaders to reaffirm India's traditional ethos of respecting and honouring the elderly.

 

 

Speaking on the occasion, Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, Dr. Virendra Kumar, stated that policies are rooted in the values of respect and empathy for the elderly. The launch of the Senior Citizen Welfare Portal and the inauguration of senior citizen homes reflect the government’s strong commitment to inclusive development and active ageing. The event aimed at fostering an inclusive society for the senior citizens. It acknowledged the contribution of senior citizens, need for creating an inclusive environment, wisdom and experience bringing together diverse voices and spiritual leaders for the intergenerational bonding and welfare of our senior citizens. Other dignitaries gracing the event included Ministers of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, Dr. Ramdas Athawale and Shri B.L. Verma.

 

 

The day began with an inspiring interaction between the President and ‘Unsung Heroes’, who have made selfless contributions to the nation across diverse fields—education, social reform, sports, arts and literature, history and community service. Some of the unsung heroes included the Padma Awardees. Their life stories and commitment to service inspired all present and underscored the quiet strength of India’s elderly population.

 

 

A pledge was administered involving students, officials from Department, President Secretariat and other invitees symbolising intergenerational bonding and solidarity and the nation’s commitment to safeguarding the rights and dignity of senior citizens. The pledge serves as a reminder of the values of empathy, respect, and responsibility towards the elderly.

 

 

A major highlight of the event was the launch of the Senior Citizen Welfare Portal by the President of India. The portal is envisioned as a comprehensive digital platform aimed at empowering elderly citizens through seamless access to government schemes, healthcare benefits, welfare services, and updates on relevant events. By bridging the information gap and promoting digital inclusion, it will enable senior citizens to lead more informed, independent, and fulfilling lives.

 

 

Further strengthening the support ecosystem for the elderly, the President also virtually inaugurated five new Senior Citizen Homes located in Tawang (Arunachal Pradesh), Wokha (Nagaland), Vellore (Tamil Nadu), Anakapalli (Andhra Pradesh), and Nainital (Uttarakhand). These facilities, supported under the Ministry’s programme aligned with the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens (MWPSC) Act, are designed to provide safe, nurturing, and dignified living environments for indigent senior citizens across the country.

 

Adding to the significance of the occasion, an MoU with the Brahma Kumaris was signed, reaffirming a collective commitment to inter-generational bonding, overall wellbeing and creating an inclusive society for the senior citizens. With decades of experience in fostering emotional balance and inner peace, the Brahma Kumaris will promote and conduct programmes on mental health, mindfulness, and spiritual enrichment for younger and older generations.

 

Another major highlight was the distribution of Aids and Assistive Devices under the Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana (RVY). The President handed over assistive items to eligible senior citizens, reaffirming the government's resolve to address the health and mobility needs of the elderly. The event also highlighted the significance of preserving traditional knowledge, intergenerational values, and cultural continuity. Speakers emphasized that ‘active ageing’ is not just about physical well-being but also about emotional engagement, community participation, and mental enrichment.

 

 

 

The event served as a platform to highlight the Government of India’s continued commitment to the welfare and empowerment of senior citizens. Through focused policy interventions, digital initiatives, and community-based support, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment reiterates its dedication to ensuring that senior citizens across the country lead lives marked by dignity, security, and active participation in society.

 

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