The United Nations General Assembly designated October 1st as the International Day of Older Persons to recognize the invaluable contributions, wisdom, and dignity of senior citizens. First observed in 1991, this day serves as a global reminder to honor the elderly and prioritize their well-being. With life expectancy now exceeding 75 years in half of the world’s nations—25 years longer than in 1950—the global population of older persons is expected to surpass that of youth by 2030. This demographic shift is most pronounced in developing countries, highlighting the need for society to focus on the rights and needs of older citizens.

To celebrate this day, the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment, in collaboration with the Department of School Education and Literacy, has initiated a series of activities throughout October 2024. The initiative aims to nurture values of respect, empathy, and care for senior citizens among younger generations. By fostering intergenerational bonding, it seeks to create a culture of gratitude and recognition for the role elders play in society.

Educational institutions across the country will play a central role in this month-long observance. Schools and colleges will host annual Grandparents’ Day celebrations, featuring storytelling sessions, games, and other interactive activities designed to bring different generations closer. These events will provide a platform for senior citizens to share their life experiences and wisdom with the younger generation, allowing students to develop a deeper appreciation for their elders.

In addition to the Grandparents’ Day celebrations, institutions will conduct pledge-taking ceremonies, where students, teachers, and staff will commit to respecting and supporting senior citizens. These pledges will be prominently displayed in schools as a daily reminder of the values they stand for. Morning assemblies and language classes will also be dedicated to reciting poems and shlokas that emphasize the importance of honoring and caring for elders. By drawing on India’s rich cultural heritage, these literary pieces are expected to resonate deeply with students, reinforcing the message of reverence and care.

A key element of this initiative is to encourage meaningful interactions between students and senior citizens. Educational institutions will organize regular sessions where students can engage with elders from their communities through a variety of activities, such as sharing stories, discussing historical events, or learning traditional crafts. This initiative aims to bridge the generational gap and help students develop a greater appreciation for the experiences and knowledge that senior citizens bring.

Moreover, students will be encouraged to participate in community service initiatives that involve working with senior citizens. Schools and colleges may collaborate with local communities to establish mentorship programs where senior citizens can guide students in areas such as arts, culture, and vocational skills. These activities not only benefit students by providing valuable insights but also offer a sense of purpose and connection to senior citizens.

The Department of Social Justice and Empowerment, along with the Department of School Education and Literacy, has shared these initiatives with States, Union Territories, and educational institutions to ensure widespread participation. The overarching goal is to instill values of care and concern for senior citizens among the youth and to involve the entire community in addressing the challenges faced by the elderly.

As the world celebrates the International Day of Older Persons, India’s month-long observance serves as a heartfelt tribute to the enduring legacy and contributions of its senior citizens. By nurturing a sense of respect and empathy from an early age, the country aims to build a more inclusive and compassionate society, where the voices of senior citizens are heard, their needs are met, and their dignity is upheld.