New Delhi: More than 5.36 lakh people have taken the national pledge under the Centre’s ‘Ageing with Dignity’ campaign, reaffirming their commitment to ensuring dignity, care and respect for senior citizens, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment said on Wednesday.
The ministry said the initiative complements Elderline 14567, the national toll-free helpline for senior citizens, which provides information, counselling, grievance redressal and emergency support to elderly persons across the country.
Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Dr Virendra Kumar said respecting senior citizens is not merely a social responsibility but a collective national commitment towards building an inclusive and compassionate society. He urged citizens to visit the ministry’s Ageing with Dignity portal and take the pledge to support the welfare of the elderly.
Launched on October 1, 2021, Elderline 14567 operates seven days a week from 8 am to 8 pm across all states and Union Territories. The helpline offers information on healthcare services, old-age homes, day-care centres, caregivers, pension-related issues, government welfare schemes and legal assistance.
The service also provides field intervention in cases involving elder abuse, neglect, rescue and rehabilitation of homeless senior citizens, besides offering emotional support to those facing loneliness, anxiety and family disputes.
The ministry said the ‘Take a Pledge’ campaign encourages citizens to respect, care for and support senior citizens while promoting awareness about their rights and standing against elder abuse. Participants receive a digital Certificate of Commitment after taking the pledge.
The Centre has appealed to citizens to join the nationwide campaign and contribute towards creating an age-inclusive society where senior citizens can live with safety, dignity and respect
