Society should care elderly, cherish their contribution: Prez

President Pranab Mukherjee today favoured protection of elderly people especially those who are economically and socially disadvantaged and said the society should cherish their valuable guidance and contribution.
In his message to "HelpAge India", the President said the elderly constitute a growing proportion of the country's population owing to improved health care and declining mortality rates.
"Society as a whole should take care of the elderly especially those who are economically and socially disadvantaged. It is our moral and social responsibility to not only protect and care for them but also cherish their valuable guidance and contribution," he said in his message on the eve of International Day for Older Persons.

Mukherjee called upon people to renew their commitment to the welfare of elders and ensure for them a healthy, dignified and productive life.
The President also complimented HelpAge India for working for the elderly people for the last 37 years and rendering its valuable service to the cause of the disadvantaged and needy older people.
India has an estimated number of 10 crore people who are above the age of 60 and the figure is projected to be 32.4 crore by 2050.