President Murmu Launches Senior Citizen Welfare Plan

In a warm tribute to the wisdom, contributions, and dignity of senior citizens, the President of India, Smt. , attended the event ‘Ageing with Dignity’ at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre. Organized by the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, the event showcased several significant initiatives dedicated to the overall well-being of elderly citizens across the nation.

A Momentous Day for Senior Citizens’ Welfare

The event marked the launch of the Senior Citizens Welfare Portal, a dedicated digital platform designed to centralize welfare schemes, information, and support systems for India’s aging population. This portal is expected to act as a bridge between senior citizens and government schemes, making information and services easily accessible to them and their caregivers.

Alongside this, the President virtually inaugurated several senior citizens’ homes, equipped with modern amenities and designed to provide comfortable, secure, and community-driven living environments. These homes are a testament to the government’s commitment to dignified aging and inclusive care.

In addition, the event saw the distribution of aids and assistive devices to elderly beneficiaries, thereby promoting mobility, independence, and a higher quality of life for those in need. The devices aim to reduce the dependency of senior citizens on others and enhance their confidence and autonomy.

A significant highlight of the program was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment and the Brahma Kumaris organization, which aims to foster the spiritual, emotional, and social well-being of the elderly through counseling, , and value-based life practices.

President Murmu’s Inspiring Address

Addressing the gathering, President Droupadi Murmu emphasized the deep-rooted cultural importance of respecting and valuing elders in Indian society. “Respecting parents and elders is a part of our culture. In many families, children share a special bond with their grandparents who serve as emotional anchors. When elders witness the success and happiness of their family, it positively impacts their own mental and physical well-being,” she said.

Highlighting the growing importance of the elderly in a fast-paced world, the President remarked, “In today’s competitive life, the support, inspiration, and guidance of senior citizens are invaluable for the younger generation. The wealth of experience and knowledge they possess can help youth navigate complex life challenges with resilience and wisdom.”

She further noted that old age should be seen not just as a stage of physical retreat but as a time for spiritual empowerment and self-reflection. By analyzing their life journeys and deepening spiritual understanding, senior citizens can continue to lead fulfilling and impactful lives.

“Elders are a bridge to the past and a guide to the future. It is our collective responsibility to ensure they live their later years with dignity, security, and engagement,” the President stated.

A Vision for an Inclusive and Respectful Society

President Murmu expressed her appreciation for the government’s efforts to create inclusive platforms and services for the elderly and called on every citizen to contribute actively to the happiness and dignity of senior citizens. She urged society to value their insights and enjoy the enriching company of older generations.

The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment reaffirmed its commitment to senior citizens by unveiling these initiatives as part of a larger vision to build an age-friendly India where senior citizens are empowered, respected, and included in the mainstream of life.

Conclusion

The ‘Ageing with Dignity’ event at Rashtrapati Bhavan not only celebrated the invaluable contributions of India’s senior citizens but also showcased the government’s proactive steps in promoting their welfare. Through collaborative efforts and a unified national spirit, the dream of dignified and empowered aging in India is steadily becoming a reality.