President, PM urge care, dignity for older citizens

The 36th International Older Persons Day will be observed today under the theme “The Age of Longevity: Rethinking Systems for Longer Lives”, with the President and the Prime Minister urging greater care and dignity for older people.
In separate messages issued on Wednesday, President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman extended greetings and respect to older citizens.
The President said older people are “the roots of our present and pathfinders for our future”. Today’s Bangladesh was built on their efforts, talent, sacrifice and experience, but many older people are now living amid economic uncertainty, health problems and loneliness, he added.
Referring to Article 15(d) of the Constitution, he also said ensuring social security for older people was a state responsibility, saying the government allocated Tk 5,239 crore for the old-age allowance in the 2026-27 fiscal year and increased both the number of beneficiaries and the allowance amount.
The President urged private institutions, social and philanthropic organisations, affluent individuals and families to come forward for the welfare of older people. 
“Let love and respect for senior citizens, their smiling faces and a safe old age be our commitment,” he added.
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman said the government had taken multifaceted initiatives to ensure social security, financial protection, healthcare services and a dignified life for senior citizens. 
The initiatives included expanding the old-age allowance and making the social protection system more effective and inclusive, he added.
He also said “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,” calling for respect, compassion and responsibility towards elders at the family, social and state levels.
The Department of Social Services under the Ministry of Social Welfare has arranged rallies, discussions and special supplements in national newspapers to mark the day. It has also instructed all district and upazila offices to observe the day.
The United Nations General Assembly decided on 14 December 1990 to observe 1 October as International Older Persons Day. Bangladesh has been observing the day since 1991.