Governor K Rosaiah expressed dismay at the disintegration of the joint family system and the high rate of migration of the younger generation, which has delivered a double whammy for elder care in the nation. “Taking care of the economic, emotional and health aspects of the older people is necessary,” he said.
He was speaking at a function here on Tuesday organised by Help Age India where social responsibility awards were presented to schools, NGOs and corporates. Two unique awards — Grandpa King and Grandma Queen were presented on the occasion to the senior citizens.
“Statistics reveal that the population of elders in India amounts to 10 crore,” he said, while presenting a slew of statistics that revealed the abject conditions in which seniors were living in. “Seventy-five per cent of these people live in rural areas; 58 million live below the poverty line and 58 per cent of them are divorcees. I am told that over 90 per cent of the elders are working in the unorganised sector,” said the Governor.
He added that the situation was despite the nation progressing in all spheres and making advancements in science and technology. “The advancements have brought us comfort, but the institution of joint family system is fading,” he rued.
Stressing that the onus of taking care of our elders was on everyone, he said: “Each one of us should realise our responsibilities. We have to give due honour, status, respect, affection, care and a peaceful and comfortable old age life to them. This is in reciprocation for what they have done to us.”