Team Herald
MARGAO: On World Elders Day, the Goa Senior Citizens Forum urged the government to take serious action on issues affecting the elderly. They called for the full implementation of the Goa Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens rules in a meaningful way.
Forum members stressed the need for better support systems, healthcare access, and social welfare programmes for senior
citizens. They highlighted the importance of recognising the contributions of
elders to society and ensuring their rights and dignity are upheld.
The forum pointed out that the issues faced by
senior citizens require urgent action.
Addressing the gathering organised by the Goa Senior Citizens Forum, Water Resources Minister Subhash Shirodkar said there was need for a comprehensive health survey of elders.
He said such a survey would provide crucial insights
into the health challenges faced by senior citizens in the State.
“At the State level, a health survey of elders is an urgent need,” he stated. “Collecting data on their issues through the Deputy Collector will help us understand
their problems and needs better. This information is crucial for developing
effective measures and policies,” he said.
“This data can also guide us in amending existing laws to better safeguard the interests of senior citizens.”
He also appealed to the public, especially children, to respect and love their elders. “In recent years, the attitude towards the elderly has changed significantly,” Shirodkar noted. “The behaviour of the new generation towards their parents and grandparents is becoming a growing concern.”
Fatorda MLA Vijai Sardesai emphasised that the government must take the issues faced by elders seriously. “The support system for seniors needs immediate attention, particularly in healthcare and social services,” he said.
Margao MLA Digambar Kamat acknowledged that the issues faced by senior citizens must be urgently addressed. He stressed the importance of implementing existing laws to ensure the rights and welfare of elders is upheld.