The Kerala Cabinet approved an ordinance establishing the Kerala State Senior Citizens Commissionas announced by R. Bindu, Minister of Higher Education and Social Justice, during a press conference on Wednesday. The move responds to growing concerns about neglect, exploitation and challenges faced by older people.
The main mandate of the commission will be to protect the rights and welfare of older people. It aims to address issues such as rehabilitation, social inclusion and utilization of skills of older people for the benefit of society, Minister Bindu said.
Structure and composition
The ordinance defines the framework for the creation of the commission. It will include a chairman and up to three members, all senior citizens, appointed by government notification. The composition will ensure inclusiveness, with at least one member belonging to Scheduled Castes or Scheduled Tribes and one member being a woman.
The commission will have its headquarters in Thiruvananthapuram. Administrative support will be provided by a government officer of the rank of Additional Secretary or above, acting as Secretary. A joint secretary level officer from the Law Department will act as registrar, while a joint secretary level officer from the Finance Department will supervise financial matters.
The president, with the status equivalent to that of a government secretary, will manage the daily operations of the commission with the support of the members. Members will receive honoraria and compensation for their participation in meetings.
Mandate and responsibilities
The president and members will hold office for a period of three years from the date of their appointment. Subject matter experts may be invited as special guests for specific cases or discussions, although they do not have voting rights.
The main responsibilities of the commission include:

The minister highlighted that the establishment of the Kerala State Senior Citizens Commission reflects the government’s commitment to safeguarding the dignity and well-being of senior citizens. This initiative aims to create a society where older people are valued, respected and actively supported.
Caring for older people is essential to guarantee their dignity, well-being and quality of life. As they age, many face challenges such as declining health, loneliness and financial insecurity. Providing them with the support they need promotes a more inclusive and compassionate society.
Health care is a crucial area of ​​interest. Regular medical checkups, access to affordable healthcare, and geriatric care facilities are necessary to combat age-related diseases and improve overall well-being. Providing mental health support is equally important, as loneliness and depression are common among older adults.
Social inclusion plays an important role in their happiness. Encouraging family members to spend quality time, organizing community programs and promoting intergenerational connections can help combat isolation. Seniors possess a wealth of knowledge and experience; Creating opportunities for them to contribute to society fosters a sense of purpose and belonging.
Financial security is another key aspect. Timely pensions, social security schemes and access to financial advice can help older people manage their expenses and lead independent lives.
By respecting their contributions and meeting their unique needs, we can ensure that older adults live with dignity, surrounded by care and support. In addition to government initiatives, organizations like ASLI or Association for Older Persons in India work with dedication to help older people live a dignified life. A society that values ​​its elders enriches everyone.