Social development rests on improving human well-being, equity, and inclusivity. Health care is a key determinant of human capital formation and social progress.
Importance of Geriatric Care
India’s elderly (60+ years) population is projected to reach 19.5% by 2050 (UNFPA).
A larger elderly population implies growing dependency ratios and burden on families and social welfare
Healthy and active elderly contribute to knowledge transfer, social cohesion, and community engagement.
Reduces healthcare expenditure through preventive and primary care, enhancing productivity of caregivers.
Healthy ageing aligns with the SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).
Key Interventions
National Programme for Health Care of the Elderly (NPHCE) – dedicated geriatric units in district hospitals.
Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana (AVYAY) – integrated senior citizen welfare.
Ayushman Bharat – provides insurance for elderly with chronic diseases.
Importance of Maternal Healthcare
Foundation of Human Development – Maternal health directly influences infant mortality, child nutrition, and family welfare.
Promotes inter-generational well-being, preventing malnutrition and anaemia cycles.
Economic Impact – Reduces healthcare costs, improves labour participation of women,
Healthier mothers mean healthier children and better learning outcomes, strengthening the human capital base.
Key Interventions
Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY) and Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) – incentives for institutional deliveries and nutrition.
POSHAN 2.0 – integration of health and nutrition for pregnant and lactating women.
LaQshya and SUMAN – focus on quality maternal and newborn care.
Challenges in Maternal and Geriatric Healthcare
Shortage of geriatric specialists, gynaecologists, and ASHA workers in rural areas.
Regional Disparities – Maternal mortality in Assam (195) vs. Kerala (19).
Out-of-pocket expenditure (OOPE) remains 40%, pushing poor households into poverty.
Focus remains on curative rather than preventive health.
Social and Cultural Barriers
Patriarchal norms restrict women’s access to healthcare and nutrition.
Elderly often face neglect, isolation, and financial insecurity.
Way Forward
Increase Public Health Expenditure to 2.5% of GDP as per National Health Policy 2017.
Strengthen Home-Based Care Models and palliative services for the elderly.
Decentralize Planning and Monitoring via Panchayati Raj Institutions. (Kerala Model)
Strengthen ASHAs, ANMs, and geriatric caregivers at village level.
Use of telemedicine (eSanjeevani) and digital records for continuum of care.
A life-cycle approach to health is essential to achieve equitable and sustainable development and achieve Viksit Bharat @2047.