The newly established Department of Senior Citizens’ Welfare, one of the key initiatives announced in the first Budget of the UDF government, is gradually becoming fully operational. The government has begun redeploying key staff and has submitted proposals for a range of welfare programmes aimed at addressing the needs of Kerala’s rapidly ageing population.

As part of efforts to strengthen the newly formed department and ensure the welfare, safety and well-being of senior citizens, the State government has reallocated several staff posts.

The General Administration Department issued an order on Tuesday reallocating key positions, including additional secretary, under secretary, section officer, assistants and computer assistants, from the General Administration and Administrative Reforms departments.

The government had earlier earmarked ₹10 crore in the State Budget presented by Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan in June this year for the functioning of the department and implementation of various welfare schemes.

“Several projects and economic activities based on the needs, capabilities, purchasing power, and employment and entrepreneurship potential of senior citizens will be implemented under the department.

The department’s major responsibilities will include administering laws and regulations relating to elderly welfare, implementing welfare policies for senior citizens, and carrying out various Central and State government welfare schemes,” an official statement issued by the State government said.

According to the statement, steps are being taken to establish a State-level directorate and district-level offices, along with a State governing council to coordinate activities related to elderly welfare.

With Kerala witnessing a rapid increase in its senior citizen population, the government is also taking steps to set up a 24-hour helpline to provide timely intervention in issues faced by elderly people. A Rapid Response Team will coordinate the helpline and provide emergency assistance directly to those requiring support.

The government also plans to launch an Elder Vulnerability Register, Kerala Care Workforce Register, Service Connect Directory and Productive Ageing Register through a dedicated online portal for elderly services.

Major activities

The department will be responsible for administering laws and regulations concerning elderly welfare, implementing policies for senior citizens, and carrying out various welfare schemes of the Central and State governments.

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