State Policy for Senior Citizens (Sectoral)
The state of Tamil Nadu is undergoing a demographic transition, witnessing a rise in the senior citizen population due to declining fertility and mortality rates, coupled with increased life expectancy. According to the “Elderly in India 2021” report by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, the senior citizen population in Tamil Nadu is projected to reach 1.04 crores in 2021 and is expected to grow to 1.42 crores by 2031. Despite their numerical increase, senior citizens are revered in Tamil Nadu and considered the guiding force and repository of knowledge.
The challenges faced by the growing senior citizen population include limited access to health and nutrition, safety, social security, and denial of rights. In response, the Tamil Nadu government is taking a proactive approach by framing the State Policy for Senior Citizens, 2022. This policy, rooted in the principles of the Indian Constitution and international declarations, aims to improve and empower the lives of senior citizens in the state.
The preamble of the policy emphasises a just and equitable approach, recognising the social vulnerabilities of senior citizens, including gender, disability, and mental health. The envisioned goals include timely access to healthcare, nutrition, safety, social security, housing, and legal assistance. The government intends to collaborate with various stakeholders, including officials, experts, civil society organisations, and senior citizens, to ensure the successful implementation of the policy.
The vision is to create a holistic environment enabling senior citizens to live safe, healthy, active, and dignified lives. The mission focuses on providing timely access to essential services, adopting a preventive and inclusive approach, and ensuring no discrimination based on region, gender, caste, class, religion, or disability.
The key focus areas of the policy cover health and nutrition, social security schemes, livelihood/income security, housing and the environment, safety and security, institutional care, awareness and education, research and documentation, and disaster management and mitigation. Additionally, a dedicated Directorate for the Welfare of Senior Citizens will be established to oversee the implementation of the policy. Overall, the State Policy for Senior Citizens, 2022, reflects the commitment of the Tamil Nadu government to promote an age-friendly society and enhance the quality of life for its senior citizens.
Year: 2022
Department: Social Welfare and Women Empowerment Department