The elderly population in India (60+) is set to grow from 153 mn to 347 mn by 2050, comprising 15–20% of the total population
40% of India’s elderly are in the lowest wealth quintile, and 20% have no income, highlighting challenge of ensuring financial security & health care access
Longer lifespans, urbanisation, and nuclear families are creating stress on elder care, with cases of abandonment of sick or disabled relatives on the rise
Landmark schemes like the NPHCE and Senior Citizens Act have struggled due to poor implementation, despite their progressive design
The scheme now covers senior citizens aged 70+ irrespective of income, offering a foundation for a humane and affordable elder care system
India must prioritise inclusive elder care policies, bridging financial gaps, and creating a sustainable system to address the needs of its ageing population