The Department of Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of India, organized a programme titled “Celebration of Intergenerational Bonds” on 22 December 2025 at Old Tehsil Complex, Mehal Gate, District Chhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh, with the objective of strengthening emotional, social, and cultural bonding between different generations and promoting active and dignified ageing.

The event was graced by Shri Virendra Kumar, Hon’ble Union Minister for Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of India. Senior government officers, representatives of social organizations, and a large number of students, and family members, including grandparents of the children, were also present in large numbers.

The programme aimed to further strengthen the spirit of affection, dialogue, cooperation, and mutual respect between generations. Such initiatives play a vital role in connecting society, carrying forward values and traditions, and strengthening collective social consciousness.

The event reaffirmed the Government of India’s commitment to building an inclusive and elder-friendly society by encouraging intergenerational engagement, community participation, and active ageing. It highlighted how the experiences, wisdom, and values of senior citizens, when combined with the energy, creativity, and curiosity of children and youth, contribute to the creation of a balanced, sensitive, and progressive society.

The programme at Old Tehsil Complex featured a wide range of activities designed to promote intergenerational harmony and social cohesion as Cultural performances by students, Interactive session with senior citizens, Collective pledge-taking programme and Walkathon led by the Hon’ble Union Minister for Social Justice & Empowerment.

In his address, Shri Virendra Kumar, Hon’ble Union Minister of Social Justice & Empowerment, emphasized that senior citizens are the custodians of experience, tradition, and values, and are an invaluable strength of the nation. He underlined the importance of promoting active, healthy, and dignified ageing through community-based initiatives and intergenerational engagement.

The Hon’ble Minister highlighted several key initiatives of the Ministry, including, Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana (RVY), under which assistive devices related to mobility, vision, and hearing are provided to senior citizens, enabling them to lead independent and confident lives with dignity. He informed that over 7.28 lakh senior citizens across the country have benefited from the scheme so far. Strengthening of Elderline 14567, which has received more than 27 lakh calls, providing support, guidance, and emergency assistance to senior citizens. Promotion of intergenerational bonding through cultural, community, and outreach programmes across the country, and the provision of celebration of grandparents’ day at school.

The Celebration of this program at Old Tehsil Complex, Mehal Gate, Chhatarpur, successfully brought together senior citizens, children, youth, and the community on a shared platform of respect, participation, and cooperation. Through cultural expression, dialogue, physical activity, and collective commitment, the event reinforced the message that intergenerational harmony is essential for building a healthy, inclusive, and compassionate society.

Aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047, the programme underscored the pivotal role of senior citizens as mentors and role models, while encouraging the younger generation to learn from their experiences and contribute actively to nation-building. The event marked another meaningful step in advancing the national agenda on senior citizen welfare and fostering a harmonious, empowered, and inclusive India.

*****

KV