Srinagar, Oct. 1 -- Every year, 1 October is observed as the International Day of Older Persons. The day gives us an opportunity to renew our commitment to the respect, rights, security and dignified life of senior citizens. Rising life expectancy is a significant achievement of modern society, but a long life is truly meaningful only when every senior citizen has the opportunity to live with security, respect, self-reliance and social participation.

In India, the welfare of senior citizens is regarded as an important part of the government's broader social security framework. Under the leadership of the Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment is working continuously to ensure shelter, he...