PRAYAGRAJ, June 17 -- In a new initiative aimed at reducing social isolation among the elderly and promoting their active participation in rural society, the scope of self-help groups (SHGs) under the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) has been expanded to include senior citizens from current financial year. More than 140 senior citizens' self-help groups have already been formed across Prayagraj district, officials said. The initiative is part of a broader effort to support the elderly not only through welfare schemes but also by creating opportunities for social engagement and economic participation. Officials believe that senior citizens, with their vast life experience and traditional knowledge, can play a constructive role in guiding communities and mentoring younger generations. According to Viraj Singh, district mission manager of NRLM in Prayagraj, SHGs in rural areas were earlier primarily meant for women. Under the revised provisions made effect from this financial year, senior citizens can either form their own groups or join existing ones. "The eligibility norms have also been relaxed for elderly groups. While a women's self-help group requires at least 11 members, only five senior citizens are needed to form a senior citizens' SHG," Singh said. "At present, 142 senior citizens' self-help groups have been formed in the district," he added. Officials said the initiative is expected to provide both social and economic security to elderly residents while enabling younger generations to benefit from their traditional skills, knowledge and life experiences. Prof Yogendra Pratap Singh, director of the Govind Ballabh Pant Social Science Institute, said the move could help revive social bonding and intergenerational interaction, which have weakened due to the rise of nuclear families and changing social dynamics. "This initiative can help re-establish the social, economic and psychological role of the most experienced members of a household," he said. Senior citizens' groups will receive the same support available to women's SHGs under the livelihood mission. Elderly men and women can use their traditional skills and expertise to produce handicrafts and home-based products, generating supplementary income to meet expenses such as medicines and daily needs. "Participation in productive activities enhances their dignity within the family and society while helping reduce loneliness in old age," Singh added. In another inclusive measure, the State Rural Livelihood Mission has also approved the formation of self-help groups for persons with disabilities. More than 50 such groups have already been formed in Prayagraj. Officials said the initiative aims to bring persons with disabilities into the social and economic mainstream by promoting self-reliance, collective entrepreneurship and community participation....