Delhi govt to take steps for ensuring respect, care of elders

Delhi government is planning to launch a series of sensitisation programmes to educate people on how to care for the elderly and integrate them in social engagements.
"The objective is to create awareness among the citizens and to educate them on how to care for and integrate the elderly in social engagements.
"Elderly people are a huge resource of knowledge which can be effectively used for the benefit of society and for the guidance of the younger generation," former bureaucrat Bhure Lal said at a symposium on respecting elders organised by the Social Welfare Department of Delhi government.
According to Delhi government, one out of every 10 people in Delhi is an elderly citizen.

The participants at the event, who were drawn from among the members of the city administration, Delhi Police, academicians and former bureaucrats, were of the view that elderly persons mostly face threats from their own families which often desert and neglect them.
The breakdown of the joint family system, rising economic aspirations and the fast pace of life have all contributed to the isolation of the elderly in society.

Principal Secretary, Social Welfare and WCD, Satbir Bedi said there is a plan to celebrate the International Day of the Elderly on October 1 through the holding of a series of events.

It was also informed that a fashion show for senior citizens would be organised and the cooperation of other departments like DTC, Delhi Tourism, Directorate of Education was sought for the same.
Delhi Tourism will organise poster and painting contests at all three Dilli Haats and also ensure that on October 1, senior citizens visiting the Delhi Haats are welcomed with flowers.
Also, DTC will carry messages on its buses appealing to the people to protect and respect senior citizens while the Education Department will organise after October 10 a painting competition for schoolchildren on the theme of safeguarding, protecting and respecting the elders.

Additional Commissioner of Police Ashok Chand ,who was present at the programme, said that beat constables would present greeting cards to the elderly on October 1. A grand function is also being organised by Delhi government at India Gate for elderly persons.