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1st August 2024 (13 Topics)

The Not Young

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Context

India's ageing population is growing rapidly, with the proportion of older persons expected to rise from 8.6% in 2011 to 20.8% by 2050, raising concerns about social security for the elderly.

Rising Elderly Population and Policy Gaps

  • State Variations: Southern states and some northern states like Himachal Pradesh and Punjab report higher elderly populations than the national average.
  • Rapid Ageing: Unlike the West, East and South Asian countries, including India, are experiencing rapid ageing within 20-30 years, posing challenges for social protection.
  • Policy Gaps: Unlike East Asian countries, India lacks universal public pension schemes and adequate health insurance for the elderly, with existing schemes mainly targeting those below the poverty line.

Care and Financial Insecurity Challenges

  • Health Challenges: The Longitudinal Ageing Survey in India (LASI) indicates multiple morbidities among the elderly, influenced by geographical, social, and economic factors.
  • Caregiving Burden: Family structures in urban areas place caregiving stress on women, with rural elderly often living alone due to migration of younger family members.
  • Financial Insecurity: The Helpage India Report 2024 highlights poor coverage of social pensions and limited access to government health insurance, leading to financial insecurity among the elderly.

Mains Question

Q. India's rapidly ageing population necessitates comprehensive policy interventions to address financial, health, and social care inequalities. Critically evaluate the existing measures and suggest strategies to ensure healthy ageing while considering the demographic dividend.

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