Elderly people shouldn't be considered 'spent force' and consigned to history books: Pranab

India is what it is today because of the contributions made by its elderly population, former President Pranab Mukherjee said on Monday, underlining that the ageing section should not be considered a "spent force" and consigned to the history books.

Speaking on the occasion of International Day of Older Persons at a function organised by HelpAge India, Mukherjee said there is an urgent need to mainstream issues concerning the ageing population of India.

"The government, civil society, corporates, educational institutions, media and society at large need to recognise the importance of this segment's needs," Mukherjee told an audience of about 200 elderly people who gathered to mark the day.

"Elderly should not be considered a spent force and consigned to the history books, but seen as active members of the society contributing to its well-being," he said.

Mukherjee said if on one hand youths have the energy, elderly people have the knowledge and experience and all they need is an opportunity.

"India is what it is today because of the contributions made by the elders," he said.

Mukherjee also awarded people who contributed towards welfare of the society.

Matthew Cherian, CEO of HelpAge India, advocated for a universal pension of Rs 2,000 per month for all elders.

"Without the pension amount, these people have to work till they die and I request the government to increase the universal pension of the elderly from Rs 200 to Rs 2,000 per month," Cherian said.

"An increase in pension would go a long way in helping an elder live with dignity, as many elders often don't have any support system, or have been abandoned by their own children. Many cannot work due to debilitating factors," he added.