National Awards for Senior Citizens of India
India is a country that values and respects its elders. The government of India has instituted various schemes and programs to ensure the well-being and welfare of senior citizens. One of these initiatives is the National Awards for Senior Citizens, also known as Vayoshreshtha Sammans.
The National Awards for Senior Citizens are conferred every year on the occasion of the International Day of Older Persons, which is celebrated on 1st October. The awards are presented by the President of India or the Prime Minister of India at a special ceremony in New Delhi. The awards aim to recognize and honor the eminent and outstanding senior citizens and institutions or organizations that have contributed to the cause of elderly persons, especially indigent senior citizens.
Eligibility Criteria for Nomination
The National Awards for Senior Citizens are given in 13 categories, which are divided into two groups: institutional and individual. The eligibility criteria for nomination vary according to each category, as follows:
A. Institutional Category
1. Best Institution for Research and dissemination of Knowledge in the field of Ageing:
For institutions with a record of outstanding work in research and dissemination of knowledge in the field of ageing.
2. Best Institution for Providing Services to Senior Citizens: For institutions with a record of providing exemplary services to senior citizens, such as health care, shelter, legal aid, counseling, etc.
3. Best District Panchayat:
For district panchayats that have implemented innovative and effective programs and schemes for the welfare and empowerment of senior citizens at the grassroots level.
4. Best Urban Local Body:
For urban local bodies that have implemented innovative and effective programs and schemes for the welfare and empowerment of senior citizens in urban areas.
5. Best State in Implementing the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act 2007 and providing services and facilities to Senior Citizens:
For states that have effectively implemented the provisions of the Act, which aims to provide maintenance and welfare to parents and senior citizens, and have also provided adequate services and facilities to senior citizens, such as old age homes, helplines, pension schemes, etc.
6. Best Private Sector Organisation in promoting the well being and welfare of senior citizens:
For private sector organizations that have undertaken corporate social responsibility initiatives or philanthropic activities for the benefit of senior citizens.
7. Best Public Sector Organisation in promoting the well being and welfare of senior citizens:
For public sector organizations that have undertaken corporate social responsibility initiatives or philanthropic activities for the benefit of senior citizens.
B. Individual Category
1. Centenarian Award:
For renowned individuals who are above 90 years of age and are still physically active, independent, and contributing to society.
2. Iconic Mother Award:
For mothers who have raised their children with exemplary values and have also made significant contributions to society.
3. Lifetime Achievement Award:
For individuals who have made outstanding achievements in their respective fields or professions and have also served the society with dedication and compassion.
4. Award for Creative Art:
For individuals who have excelled in any form of creative art, such as literature, music, painting, sculpture, etc., and have enriched the cultural heritage of the country.
5. Award for Sports and Adventure (Male and Female):
For individuals who have achieved excellence in any sport or adventure activity, such as athletics, mountaineering, paragliding, etc., and have inspired others with their courage and spirit.
6. Courage and Bravery Award (Male and Female):
For individuals who have displayed exceptional courage and bravery in facing adverse situations or saving lives of others.
How to Get Awards and Procedures
The nominations for the National Awards for Senior Citizens are invited every year by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment through advertisements in newspapers, websites, social media platforms, etc. The nominations can be made by any individual or organization that is familiar with the work or achievements of the nominee. The nominations should be accompanied by relevant documents, such as biodata, certificates, photographs, testimonials, etc., as per the prescribed format.
The nominations are screened by a Screening Committee constituted by the Ministry. The Screening Committee shortlists the eligible candidates for each category based on their merit and suitability. The shortlisted candidates are then recommended to a Selection Committee headed by the Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment. The Selection Committee finalizes the awardees for each category based on their recommendations.
The awardees are informed about their selection by the Ministry through letters or emails. The awardees are also provided with travel arrangements, accommodation facilities, and other amenities by the Ministry. The awardees receive their awards from the President or Prime Minister at a grand ceremony in New Delhi on 1st October. The awards consist of a citation, a plaque, and a cash prize (in some categories). The awardees also get an opportunity to interact with other dignitaries and guests at the ceremony.
The National Awards for Senior Citizens are a prestigious honor that acknowledge the contributions of senior citizens to society. They also motivate and encourage other senior citizens to lead a dignified and productive life. The awards are a testimony to the government’s commitment to the welfare and empowerment of senior citizens in India.
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