Madhya Pradesh to Honour Centenarians on International Day of Older Persons

State-level programme in Bhopal to combine recognition of senior citizens with health screenings, digital literacy and awareness of legal rights

Bhopal, September 30, 2026. Madhya Pradesh will mark the International Day of Older Persons on October 1 with a state-level programme focused on recognising senior citizens, promoting healthy ageing and strengthening awareness about their rights and support systems.

Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav is scheduled to honour senior citizens during the state-level event at the Golden Jubilee Auditorium of the RCVP Noronha Academy of Administration. The programme will begin at 10:30 am and is expected to bring together more than 500 senior citizens and distinguished guests, according to the state government.

Centenarians to receive ‘Shatayu Samman’

A special recognition programme will be held for residents of Madhya Pradesh who have completed 100 years of age or more.

Such centenarians will be felicitated with a shawl and coconut under the ‘Shatayu Samman’ initiative, recognising their long lives and contributions to families and society.

Officials have also been directed to interact with elderly residents living in old-age homes and other senior citizens to understand their requirements and identify issues requiring attention.

Activities planned across all districts

Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Narayan Singh Kushwah said senior citizens have made significant contributions to families, communities and the country through their experience, knowledge and years of work.

He said ensuring their safety, health and dignity requires a sensitive and supportive social environment.

The department has directed district administrations across Madhya Pradesh to organise programmes for senior citizens on October 1. District-level events will include participation and engagement activities designed to encourage social interaction among older persons.

Games and recreational programmes such as carrom, ludo and chess, along with music-related activities and competitions, will also be organised.

Health check-ups to be part of the initiative

Special health camps will be conducted in coordination with the National Health Mission, district hospitals, civil dispensaries and community health centres.

Senior citizens will be able to access basic health screening, including checks related to blood pressure, diabetes and eye health, along with other general medical examinations.

The initiative is intended to place greater emphasis on preventive health and encourage elderly citizens to remain connected with available healthcare services.

Digital literacy for senior citizens

The programme will also focus on helping older persons adapt to the rapidly changing digital environment.

Awareness and training sessions will cover the use of mobile phones, the internet, computers and digital services. The objective is to help senior citizens use essential digital facilities with greater confidence and ease.

Awareness about legal rights and Elderline

Senior citizens will also be provided information about their rights and available support mechanisms under the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007, and the relevant Madhya Pradesh Rules, 2009.

Awareness campaigns will also highlight the Elderline helpline 14567, which provides assistance and a channel for addressing issues concerning senior citizens.

Focus on dignity, care and participation

The International Day of Older Persons is observed globally on October 1. The United Nations has highlighted ageing, dignity, participation, health and care systems as important elements of the international discussion on older persons.

For the 2026 observance, the UN Secretary-General’s message focuses on “The Age of Longevity: Rethinking Systems for Longer Lives,” highlighting the need to adapt health, social protection, housing, employment and lifelong-learning systems to longer lives.

In Madhya Pradesh, the state-level and district-level programmes will place emphasis on recognition, healthcare, digital inclusion, legal awareness and social participation of senior citizens.

Ministers, MPs, MLAs and other public representatives have also been invited to participate in district-level programmes being organised across the state.

(SDNA)