Day 37 – Q. 2. “Do you think India is prepared for a greying nation as its youth dividend fades? Examine the challenges of an ageing population and suggest sustainable policy responses.” (150 words, 10 marks)

Q. 2. “Do you think India is prepared for a greying nation as its youth dividend fades? Examine the challenges of an ageing population and suggest sustainable policy responses.” (150 words, 10 marks)

Introduction 

India is home to over 140 million elderly citizens, a number expected to double by 2050.  While the country enjoys a demographic dividend today, the shift toward an ageing  population poses complex social, economic, and healthcare challenges. 

Body

India’s Readiness for a Greying Nation 

1. Limited Elderly-Centric  Infrastructure: India lacks adequate  old-age homes, geriatric care units,  and age-friendly urban spaces. Example: As per Longitudinal Ageing  Study in India (LASI), only 5% of  hospitals have dedicated geriatric  wards.

2. Inadequate Pension and Social  Security Coverage: Majority of the elderly remain outside formal pension systems,  especially in unorganised sectors. Example: NSSO data shows that only 25% of India’s elderly receive any form of pension. 

3. Healthcare System Not Age-Inclusive: Geriatric care is not integrated into primary  health services, leading to untreated chronic conditions. Example: India has less than one geriatrician per lakh population (Indian Journal of  Geriatric Care, 2022). 

4. Rising Mental Health Concerns: Loneliness, depression, and neglect are rising among the  elderly. Example: A 2021 HelpAge India report found that over 60% of elders feel they are a  burden to their families. 

However, India has the time and tools to adapt to this transition. 

Emerging Support Systems and Opportunities 

1. Growing Focus on Geriatric Policy: Schemes like National Programme for Health Care of  the Elderly (NPHCE) are being scaled up. 
2. Role of Technology and Telemedicine: Platforms like e-Sanjeevani are bridging the  healthcare gap for elders in remote areas. 
3. Expanding Role of Civil Society: NGOs and private players are launching elderly helplines,  companionship programs, and wellness centres. 
4. Elderly as Human Capital: Many seniors are skilled, experienced, and willing to contribute  in part-time or advisory roles post-retirement. 

Challenges of an Ageing Population 

1. Economic Dependency: Increasing number of dependents burdens the working  population and social support systems. Example: Old Age Dependency Ratio is projected to double from 14.2% (2021) to 28.2%  by 2050 (UNFPA Report). 

2. Rising Healthcare Costs: Chronic illnesses, disabilities, and medication costs strain both  families and public health expenditure. Example: WHO estimates India’s elderly healthcare burden to rise by over 400% in two  decades. 

3. Breakdown of Traditional Family Support: Urban migration and nuclear families leave  many elders without caregivers. Example: According to Census 2011, nearly 15 million elderly live alone or with only a  spouse. 

4. Social Isolation and Elder Abuse: Many seniors face neglect or abuse, especially women. Example: HelpAge India’s 2023 survey found 1 in 3 elderly had experienced some form  of abuse. 

Sustainable Policy Responses 

1. Universal Pension Reforms: Introduce a robust universal old-age pension scheme indexed  to inflation, building on Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme and PM Vaya  Vandana Yojana. 
2. Geriatric Healthcare Integration: Include elderly care in Ayushman Bharat, train more  geriatric professionals, and strengthen the National Programme for Health Care of the  Elderly. 
3. Promote Age-Friendly Urban Design: Mandate accessible public spaces, housing, and  transport under AMRUT and Smart Cities, guided by WHO’s Age-Friendly Cities framework. 
4. Community-Based and Assistive Support: Expand senior citizen homes, distribute aids  under Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana, and promote dignity through initiatives like  Vayoshreshtha Samman. 

Conclusion

India stands at a demographic crossroads. As the youth dividend tapers, the ageing challenge  must be met with foresight, compassion, and innovation. According to the Economic Survey  2022, now is the time to invest in “Silver economy” strategies — not just to support the  elderly but to ensure inclusive and resilient national development.