New senior citizens’ welfare department takes shape in Keralam

The Department of Senior Citizens’ Welfare, a key feature of the first Budget of Kerala's UDF government, is progressing towards full operational status, with personnel shifts and new welfare initiatives under consideration. Key posts from the General Administration and Personnel and Administrative Reforms departments have been reassigned to the new department.

The budget allocation of ₹10 crore will fund the department's operations and senior-citizen welfare schemes. Proposed measures encompass protection, care, healthcare, social security, and productive ageing. This new department is crucial in light of Kerala's aging population and the challenges faced by senior citizens in terms of social, economic, and healthcare needs.

The government plans to move beyond mere welfare assistance to create a comprehensive program for addressing the needs of the elderly. The department will administer laws and rules for senior citizens, implement state policies and schemes, manage responsibilities, and oversee the Kerala State Commission for Senior Citizens and elderly care homes.

Efforts include establishing a State-level directorate for senior citizen welfare, district-level offices, and a State Governing Council to coordinate welfare measures. A comprehensive State-wide survey on senior citizens is planned, along with a 24-hour helpline managed by a Rapid Response Team. Field Response Officers will ensure immediate assistance to the elderly.

A State Technical Advisory Committee and Senior Citizen Facilitation Desks in local self-government institutions are proposed. Initiatives aim to promote interaction between senior citizens and younger generations. A dedicated senior citizen services portal will be developed, featuring an Elder Vulnerability Register, Kerala Care Workforce Register, Service Connect Directory, and Productive Ageing Register.

District Senior Citizen Cells will be established in all 14 district collectorates, with processes for certification of senior citizen-friendly government offices, a Dementia-Friendly Keralam initiative, and health protocols and neighborhood support networks for elderly individuals with Kudumbashree support.