The Government of India announced a National Policy on Older Persons in January 1999. This policy provides a broad framework for inter sectoral collaboration and cooperation both within the government as well as between government and non-governmental agencies. In particular, the policy has identified a number of areas of intervention; financial security, health care and nutrition, shelter, education, welfare, protection of life and property etc. for the wellbeing of older persons in the country. Amongst others the policy also recognizes the role of the NGO sector in providing user friendly affordable services to complement the endeavours of the State in this direction.

A National Council for Older Persons (NCOP) has been constituted by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment to operationalise the National Policy on Older Persons. The basic objectives of the NCOP are to:

• advice the Government on policies and programmes for older persons

• provide feedback to the Government on the implementation of the National Policy on Older Persons as well as on specific programme initiatives for older persons

• advocate the best interests of older persons

• provide a nodal point at the national level for redressing the grievances of older persons which are of an individual nature>

• provide lobby for concessions, rebates and discounts for older persons both with the Government as well as with the corporate sector

• represent the collective opinion of older persons to the Government

• suggest steps to make old age productive and interesting

• suggest measures to enhance the quality of intergenerational relationships.

• undertake any other work or activity in the best interest of older persons.

There are 39 members in the council. A seven member-working group has also been constituted from amongst the members of NCOP. The Working Group has so far held two meetings to discuss ways and means to achieve its objectives. Several Non Government Agencies have also sprung up in India to give different services to the senior citizens. Special concessions and benefits are extended by several Utility Service providers like Indian railways, The Indian Airlines, UTI, LIC etc. Recently the nationalised and other banks have come forward with unique schemes in favour of senior citizens and concessional rate of interests of their deposits. Government has also extended special tax rebates with reference to Personal taxation.