Kerala has become the first state in India to establish a Senior Citizens Commission, a landmark move aimed at safeguarding the rights and welfare of its elderly population. The commission was formed under the Kerala State Senior Citizens Commission Act, 2025. This initiative highlights the state's commitment to addressing the challenges and ensuring the well-being of its aging demographic.
The Senior Citizens Commission is a statutory body designed to protect the rights and welfare of elderly citizens while also serving as an advisory body for policymaking. It will address issues such as neglect, abuse, exploitation, and loneliness among the elderly. The commission will promote the use of senior citizens' skills and knowledge for the benefit of society, facilitate access to legal support for those facing abuse or property disputes, and conduct awareness campaigns regarding elderly rights and family responsibilities. The commission is also expected to submit regular reports and suggestions to the state government to improve policies related to senior citizens.
Kerala has one of the highest aging populations in the country, and it is projected that by 2026, one-fourth of its population will be over 60 years of age. This demographic shift presents significant socioeconomic challenges, making the establishment of the Senior Citizens Commission a crucial step in framing comprehensive strategies to address these issues.
The commission's headquarters will be located in Thiruvananthapuram. The Chairperson and members will serve a three-year term, with the Chairperson holding the status of a Government Secretary. The government will also appoint a Secretary (not below the rank of Additional Secretary), a Registrar (not below the rank of Joint Secretary in the Law Department), and a Finance Officer (not below the rank of Deputy Secretary in the Finance Department). K. Somaprasad, former Rajya Sabha MP and Kollam District Panchayat President, has been appointed as the first Chairperson of the Commission. Amaravila Ramakrishnan, E M Radha, K N K Namboothiri, and Lopes Mathew have been appointed as members of the Commission.
The commission will provide recommendations and guidelines for the welfare and protection of senior citizens. Its objectives include facilitating the rehabilitation of destitute veterans, extending legal aid as needed, and proposing measures to incorporate the skills of senior citizens into community development. The commission will be responsible for submitting its findings and recommendations to the government for action or conflict resolution regarding issues affecting older individuals. Healthcare is a crucial focus.
According to Arun S Nair, the director of Kerala's Social Justice Department, financial security is a vital aspect of elderly welfare. The commission can assist seniors in accessing timely pensions, social security schemes, and financial advice, helping them manage their expenses and lead independent lives. The state government hopes that this initiative will serve as a model for other states, especially considering that Kerala's elderly population is projected to reach 8.4 million by 2036, presenting significant socioeconomic challenges.
State Social Justice Minister Dr. R Bindu has emphasized the government's commitment to prioritizing social care for the elderly. The Social Justice Department is dedicated to evolving timely policies and mechanisms to address the issues related to aging. The government is also focused on ensuring accessible healthcare for the elderly and effectively implementing the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens (MWPSC) Act, in addition to providing institutional and policy support in all relevant areas.
The establishment of the Senior Citizens Commission underscores Kerala's proactive approach to addressing the needs of its aging population and ensuring their well-being, dignity, and active participation in society.
