World Senior Citizens Day 2026 Observed on 21 August

21 August 2026National

World Senior Citizens Day is observed globally on 21 August each year to honour the contributions of older persons and raise awareness about issues affecting the elderly, such as healthcare access, financial security and social inclusion. The day traces its origins to a proclamation by US President Ronald Reagan in 1988. In India, the observance aligns with government initiatives for elderly welfare, including the Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana (assistive devices for senior citizens) and the Integrated Programme for Senior Citizens run by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. This year's observance carries the theme "Digital Equity for All Ages," highlighting the need to bridge the digital divide between older and younger generations.

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Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment is the nodal ministry for senior citizens' welfare in India | The Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act was passed in 2007 | India's National Policy on Older Persons was adopted in 1999

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