'Need to strengthen social bonding between generations': President Mukherjee

President Pranab Mukherjee, who presented the national awards for Senior Citizens -Vayoshreshtha Samman -2015 at a function here today on the occasion of International Day of Older Persons, said there is need to strengthen social bonding between the generations.

Speaking on the occasion, President Mukherjee said the International Day of Older Persons is an occasion to focus renewed attention on issues relating to the older people.

"There is a need to sensitise various strata of the society towards the challenges being faced by the elderly people. Social isolation, neglect, and lack of love, care and emotional support are the major deprivations generally faced by the older people," he said.

"The younger generation must be willing to give more respect, love and care to the elderly, not only in their own family but also in the society at large. There is need to strengthen social bonding between the generations," he added.

President Mukherjee said that facilities to provide institutional care to needy elderly persons must be established in sufficient numbers.

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"A robust legal framework implemented with vigour would help ensure the safety, security and well-being of older persons in our country," President Mukherjee said.

"The senior citizens too can play an important role in making their own lives fruitful and in enriching the society in which they live. By sharing their experience and wisdom, senior citizens can contribute towards the betterment of the society in no small measure," he added.