A one-day workshop held in Malappuram, the most populous district of the south Indian state of Kerala, evaluated that in the wake of the various challenges faced by senior citizens across different sectors in Kerala, ensuring their protection and social security is an urgent necessity. Jointly organized by the Inter-University Centre for Social Science Research and Extension (IUCSS) of Mahatma Gandhi University and the Kerala Grama Panchayat Association, the workshop titled “Ageing, Gender, and Human Security in Kerala” provided a platform for a fresh discourse in the field of elderly welfare.
Senior Citizens are Humans with Rights: Local Self Government Minister Mr. K. M. Shaji
The Minister for Local Self-Government, Shri K. M. Shaji, inaugurated the workshop. The Minister stated that the protection of the elderly is not merely the responsibility of a single family, but rather a significant duty of the nation and society as a whole. Senior citizens should not be viewed merely as subjects of pity or sympathy, but they are human beings with dignity and rights. He emphasized that society must adopt an approach that recognizes and respects them. The Minister pointed out that according to statistics, the elderly population in India is projected to rise to 23 crores (230 million) or more by 2036. In this context, he reminded that instead of marginalizing or isolating the elderly, a secure social environment must be created to utilize their wealth of experience and skills for the benefit of society. He also stressed the importance of nurturing respect and a sense of responsibility toward elders in children from a young age. He added that the coordinated intervention of government machinery, local self-government institutions, families, and the general public is essential to ensure the welfare and security of senior citizens.
Institutional Interventions Must Be Strengthened: District Collector
Dr. Vinay Goyal, Malappuram District Collector, was the chief guest at the event. He highlighted the importance of government interventions in the field of elderly welfare. The Collector noted that Kerala’s achievements in ensuring elderly care and social security are remarkable. However, he reminded that there is still a long way to go in this sector and that the activities of various departments and local bodies need to be further strengthened.
Participation of the New Generation and Human Resource Utilization
Mr. Anil Akkara, former MLA and Kerala Grama Panchayat Association President presided over the function. He pointed out the need to increase the participation of the younger generation to make elderly care more effective. He demanded that projects connecting youth with elderly welfare through social service activities should be given more encouragement.
Speaking at the workshop, Mr. Madan Mohan explained the necessity of viewing the elderly as a valuable human resource for society. Drawing some examples from Kerala, he presented various possibilities and strategies to effectively utilize the knowledge, experience, and expertise of the elderly for the benefit of society and development activities.
Discussion and Sharing of Experiences
The workshop was led by staff from the Inter University Centre and office-bearers of the Grama Panchayat Association. An active discussion took place at the event regarding the need to strengthen joint interventions by families, society, government, and voluntary organizations in creating an elderly-friendly society.
The discussion saw participation from public representatives and social workers, including District Social Justice Officer Mr. Sameer, Grama Panchayat Association Secretary Mr. Ahmed Punnakal, IUCSSRE Director Dr. K. M. Seethi, and Joint Director Dr. Anil Gopi, alongside various Grama Panchayat and Municipality presidents, members, ICDS supervisors, Kudumbashree workers, ASHA workers, Anganwadi teachers, palliative care workers, and caregivers from old-age homes.
Delegates shared their practical experiences and suggestions regarding the welfare of senior citizens and governmental interventions. The workshop served as a vibrant platform to deliberate on how the vast experience of the elderly can benefit a locality, society, and the government, as well as to formulate new projects to be implemented in the future.
The workshop was coordinated and led by Mr. Sabu Thomas, Dr. Nimitha, Mr. Sudeep, Mr. Beetoo, Mr. Thalhath, Mr. Manoj Mathew, Mr. Muhsin, and others. Dr. Anil Gopi proposed a vote of thanks.