Elderly in India 2021 Report Published
Elderly in India 2021 Report Published
Recently, the ‘Elderly in India 2021’ report has been published by the Ministry of Statistics and Program Implementation (MOSPI).
The main objective of the report ‘Elderly in India 2021’ is to provide information about the problems and condition of the elderly in the country and help in policy making related to them.
Key findings of the report:
- According to this report, the share of elderly population in the total population of India has increased from 8.6% in the year 2011 to 10.1% in the year 2021. Additionally, it is projected to reach 13.1% in the year 2031.
- The number of elderly people is increasing due to decline in fertility and increase in lifespan.
- The highest elderly population is in Kerala (16.5%) and the lowest is in Bihar (7.7%).
- There has been an increase in the old-age dependency ratio. It increased from 10.9% in 1961 to 14.2% in 2011. It is expected to grow by 15.7% and 20.1% in 2021 and 2031 respectively.
- Old age dependency ratio is defined as the number of persons in the age group 60+ per 100 persons relative to the age group 15-59.
- Literacy levels among older men and women have improved over time in both rural and urban areas.
- A large gender gap has been observed in this. According to Census 2011, only 28% of older women are literate as compared to 59% of men.
- Major problems of older people: economic problems, physical problems, housing problems and crimes against them.
Measures taken for the health and welfare of the elderly:
- National Policy on Older Persons: NPOP, 1999
- National Action Plan for the Welfare of Senior Citizens: NAPSrC
- Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007 Senior Citizen National Award
- Vayoshreshtha Samman RashtriyaVayoshri Yojana (RVY): Scheme for providing physical assistance and life aids to senior citizens.
- Senior Citizens Welfare Fund
- National Council of Senior Citizens
- National Older Persons Health Care Program (NPHCE)
- Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM&JAY)
- Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana (PNVVY)
Source – The Hindu
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