Govt takes multifaceted initiatives for welfare of older people: PM

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has said the government has taken various initiatives for welfare of the country’s older people.

“To establish a welfare-based humane state, the government has undertaken multifaceted action plans to ensure social security, financial protection, healthcare services and a dignified life for senior citizens,” he said.

The Prime Minister said this in a message on the eve of the International Day of Older Persons-2026, scheduled to be observed on Thursday.

The day will be observed in Bangladesh as elsewhere in the world under the theme- The Age of Longevity: Rethinking Systems for Longer Lives.

The Prime Minister greeted all older citizens of the country saying the government remained alert and careful in protecting their rights.

Tarique Rahman said, “Initiatives have been taken to create opportunities for older people to have a safe and dignified life by expanding the old-age allowance, making the social protection system more effective and inclusive.”

“Current government is implementing various measures to strengthen social protection for poor and vulnerable groups in line with the concept of a welfare-oriented state following the election manifesto,” he said.

He added that the government is continuously working to maintain the good health of older persons, keep them active in social activities and integrate them into the social protection framework without neglecting them.

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Highlighting the need for making health, social protection and family support systems more responsive to ensure long and dignified lives, the Prime Minister said, “Due to increased health awareness among people and advancement of medical science, life expectancy is increasing in countries across the world, creating new opportunities.”

“Older people are the base of our families and society. Today’s Bangladesh has been built on the sacrifices, experience and wisdom of older persons. Therefore, a caring approach towards them is essential for building a welfare-oriented, just and humane Bangladesh,” he noted.

In this connection, he called on all to continue practicing respect, compassion and responsibility towards elders at all three levels- family, society and state.

“I believe that the more the religious, social and family values are preserved in our state and society, the more the care, respect and dignity of older persons will be protected in society,” the Prime Minister said.

“We want to establish such a welfare-oriented state where every person, whether young or old, can utilise their fullest potential and lead a dignified and fulfilling life,” he said wishing success of the programmes of the day.