New Delhi: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of India concluded its day-long national conference on the “Rights of Older Persons” Friday at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi. The conference, marking the NHRC’s 31st Foundation Day, brought together government officials, experts, and advocates to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing India’s aging population, a PIB release stated.
NHRC Acting Chairperson, Smt Vijaya Bharathi Sayani, delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the importance of respecting and supporting the elderly as “the architects of our nation’s history, the keepers of our cultural heritage, and the pillars of our families.” She highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach to address the multifaceted issues faced by older persons, including financial insecurity, healthcare disparities, social isolation, and discrimination.
NHRC Secretary General, Shri Bharat Lal, stressed the need to harness the potential of India’s aging population and create an enabling environment for their well-being. He called for a review of existing structural, social, legal, and infrastructural frameworks to ensure the dignity and active participation of older persons in society.
Union Minister Shri Amit Yadav, who chaired the first session, reiterated the government’s commitment to the welfare of older persons and indicated potential legal changes to support this commitment.