Senior Citizens Demand Focus on Silver Economy in Maharashtra Elections 2024
- Senior citizens in Maharashtra account for 11.71% of the state's population, surpassing the national average.
- The Joint Action Committee of Senior Citizens has outlined significant demands related to financial security, healthcare, and infrastructure suited for the elderly.
- Political parties are urged to incorporate these demands into their electoral manifestos to ensure the welfare of the ageing population.
In Maharashtra, the Joint Action Committee of Senior Citizens has formally presented a manifesto advocating for the rights and needs of the elderly ahead of the 2024 assembly elections. This group, which includes 26 organizations, pushes for vital changes to enhance the quality of life for senior citizens, who make up a significant 11.71% of the state's population, indicating a notable demographic shift since the last election cycle. This figure is higher than the national average, underscoring the necessity for targeted policies. The manifesto emphasizes financial security through improved pension schemes and subsidies, accessible healthcare tailored to the elderly, and legal protections to safeguard their rights and properties. Additionally, it calls for the development of an age-friendly infrastructure that promotes mobility and a community-centered approach to elderly welfare. The JAC's call to political parties highlights the pressing need for awareness and comprehensive data on aging. They also urge the implementation of United Nations recommendations regarding senior citizens, including standardized age definitions and specialized state-level councils. Ultimately, these initiatives aim to foster a more supportive environment for the ageing population in Maharashtra, with a strong emphasis on intergenerational bonding and productive aging. As projections indicate that by 2031, seniors will represent 15% of the population, the urgency for robust policies becomes increasingly evident.