Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh has emphasised intergenerational synergy among Gen X, Y, Z for optimum outcomes in nation building.

Speaking at the CII Health Conclave Special Plenary on “"Empowering Senior Care", Dr. Jitendra Singh called for redefining the senior citizens' role as equal partners in a shared national mission. He said, India’s future strength will depend on fostering intergenerational synergy — blending the wisdom of experience with the energy of youth.

“Just as interdisciplinary collaboration drives innovation, intergenerational integration is vital for healthy nation-building,” he remarked, adding that senior citizens are “equal participants, no less in energy or expertise.” Those with progressive mindsets, he said, can seamlessly adapt to Gen Z culture while bringing with them traditional knowledge, values, and lived experience from earlier decades.

“This makes them an ideal combination of traditional wisdom with the most modern technology and innovation,” he said. “It also reflects the Prime Minister’s vision of combining high-tech and deep-tech with India’s age-old knowledge systems.”

The Minister questioned the conventional idea of old age itself, noting that the line between generations is increasingly blurred. “Many of those who grew up in the black-and-white era have travelled through every wave of change — from colour television to social media. We are Gen Z+,” he quipped, urging society to replace stereotypes about ageing with respect for lifelong learning and adaptability.

Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted that while India is often described as a young nation, the absolute number of the population of citizens aged 60 and above is steadily increasing. “The real challenge is to ensure that this growing segment remains physically and mentally healthy while contributing productively to society,” he said.

Referring to reforms in pension administration, Dr. Jitendra Singh noted that technology is being used to ease the lives of senior citizens. The government has introduced biometric and face-authentication systems to simplify life certification for pensioners. “We used technology not as a favour to the elderly, but to bring ease of living for every citizen,” he said.

He also shared that over 85,000 central government pensioners are above the age of 90, and nearly 2,500 have crossed 100. Pension rules have been revised to provide 65 per cent of the last drawn salary after 90 years and full salary after 100. “It reflects how longevity and health outcomes are improving — and why our approach must evolve accordingly,” he added.

Calling preventive healthcare a national priority, the Minister observed that diseases once linked with ageing are now appearing among the young. “We must conserve our youthful energies and prevent avoidable illnesses that erode productivity,” he said.

Dr. Jitendra Singh further underlined the government’s openness to private sector partnerships in senior care and healthcare innovation, saying the traditional barriers between public and private sectors have faded, creating a more enabling ecosystem.

Concluding his remarks, Dr. Jitendra Singh said India’s strength lies in harnessing the collective power of all generations — X, Y, Z, and beyond. “Senior citizens bring depth, Gen Z brings drive — and together, they can form the most productive synergy for a new India,” he said.

 

 

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