भारत ने जनसांख्यिकीय परिवर्तनों के संदर्भ में स्वास्थ्य संबंधी नई चुनौति का सामना करना पड़ रहा है?। (10 अंक) Disc the concept of healthy active ageing in the context of demographic shifts in India. How does it contribute to social inclusion? (10 marks)

Currently around 10% of Indian population is over the age of 60 years, which is going to increase to 20% in the next 20 years.

Healthy active ageing refers to the process of ensuring that the ageing population of our country is active and healthy.

Current issues faced by elderly:

Healthy active ageing will increase by:-

(i) Investment in geriatric care – research and development in old age disease, infrastructure, doctors.

ii) Creating a healthy environment – pollution free, diets (varied and nutritious)

iii) Focussing on the social security of elderly – pension / social security scheme.

(ⓒ) National Old-age pension scheme, PM Vaya Vandana Yojana.

This will contribute to social inclusion in the following ways:-

i) Inclusion of the elderly in economy (ⓒ) – mentorship programme

ii) Decision making and advisory role

iii) Raising age of retirement – inclusion

iv) Provision of services for the elderly.

According to NITI Aayog, silver economy is going to multiply many times and offers great opportunities.

Demographic shifts will lead to increase in dependent population. Policy action's must be proactive to create an atmosphere for their social inclusion