Statement by India under Annual thematic panel discussion on technical cooperation in the promotion and protection of human rights: Technical cooperation and capacity-building in the field of the human rights of older persons in the 41stSession of the Human Rights Council ( 24 June – 12 July 2019), delivered by Ms. Mini Devi Kumam, First Secretary,Permanent Mission of India, (Geneva, 10th July 2019)

Madam Vice President,

We appreciate convening this panel discussion and views shared by the panellists.

2. Ageing is irreversible and inevitable. We must better equip people in earlier age so that they remain in good physical and mental health and continue their involvement in the family and community throughout the ageing process. Stronger partnerships between civil society, community and families are necessary to complement the actions taken by governments in this regard.

3. It may be noted that 10% of India’s population comprises of older persons and it will become 20% by 2050. Recognizing that older persons face various vulnerabilities due to their age, India has taken numerous steps to ensure a life of dignity for them. We would like to share some of these policies and programmes. Some key initiatives are the National Policy on Older Persons, the National Programme for Health Care of Elderly, pension schemes and legal assistance programmes. India is also in the process of revising its National Policy on Older Persons taking into account changing demographic pattern, socio-economic needs, social value system and advancement in the field of science and technology over the last decade.

3. The Senior Citizens Act of 2007 revolves around state support for financial and food security, health care, shelter and protection against exploitation. It facilitates inter-sectoral coordination within Government and assistance to civil society and local bodies for their services to senior citizens.

4. Finally, India remains committed to taking all possible steps towards improving quality of life of older persons and protecting their rights and dignity through full implementation of Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing and the 2030 Agenda.

Thank you, Madam Vice President.

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