April 09, 2002

        Centre has drawn up a Five Year Action Plan to identify its role as well as that of the State Governments in implementing the National Policy for Older persons. It has also decided to review its implementation every three years.Addressing the inaugural plenary session of the World Assembly on Ageing in Madrid on Monday, the Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Dr. Satyanarayan Jatiya, stressed the importance attached by the Government of India to the welfare of the aged persons even though the system of old age homes is alien to Indian culture. He told the conference amidst applause that the Indian family has traditionally given to its aged members honour and dignity, and the ‘ashram system’ inherent in Indian culture views the ‘sanyasth’ stage as an integral part of human life. He spoke about the need to provide safety, security and dignity to elderly persons. Dr. Jatiya said that in view of globalisation and its economic impact, the government of India has taken effective and appropriate measures to ensure the welfare and well-being of the senior citizens, particularly for those belonging to the weaker sectionss. The opportunity to the leader of the Indian Delegation to address the plenary is in diplomatic circles considered as an honour accorded to India.

        About 170 delegations are attending the Second World Assembly on Ageing, organised by the United Nations. It was inaugurated by Princess Cristina of Spain and was addressed among others by UN Secretary General Kofi Annan. The conference is being held after a gap of 20 years and acquires special significance for developing countries who are facing changes in their economics due to globalisation while their demographic profiles and workforce are also changing to contain more aged persons. The Assembly after five days of deliberations will adopt a Declaration for action for the Welfare of the aged.