Daily Current Affairs : 28-July-2023
In recent years, the issue of elderly care and empowerment has gained significant attention in India. With a substantial population of senior citizens, it has become imperative for the government to address their needs and ensure their active participation in society. To this end, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has introduced two essential portals – the SAGE (Seniorcare Aging Growth Engine) and the SACRED (Senior Able Citizens for Re-Employment in Dignity) portals. These portals aim to create a more inclusive society by providing support and opportunities for elderly citizens.
SAGE Portal: Promoting Business Innovation in the “Silver Economy”
The SAGE initiative focuses on the well-being of elderly persons in India, offering them the necessary care and assistance. The SAGE portal serves as a platform to foster entrepreneurship and business innovation in the “silver economy,” addressing the specific needs and demands of senior citizens. Key features of the SAGE portal include:
- Encouraging Entrepreneurship: The portal aims to encourage entrepreneurs and start-ups to invest in products and services that cater to the elderly population. By promoting innovation in this domain, the government seeks to enhance the quality of life for senior citizens.
- One-Stop Access: The SAGE portal provides a convenient “one-stop access” to credible start-ups offering elderly care products and services. This streamlines the process for senior citizens to access necessary resources and support.
SACRED Portal: Enabling Re-Employment Opportunities for Senior Citizens
The SACRED portal is a significant step towards ensuring the active participation of senior citizens in the workforce. Recognizing the wealth of experience and skills that senior citizens possess, the government has taken measures to connect them with suitable job opportunities. Key aspects of the SACRED portal include:
- Job Registration: Citizens above the age of 60 can register on the SACRED portal to explore job opportunities that match their preferences and capabilities. This virtual matching system connects senior citizens with private enterprises offering suitable positions.
- Fostering Dignity: By re-entering the workforce, senior citizens can maintain their dignity and contribute actively to society. The portal promotes inclusivity by creating an environment where age is not a barrier to meaningful employment.
The Growing Population of Senior Citizens in India
The need for initiatives like SAGE and SACRED arises from the rapidly growing population of senior citizens in India. According to the Census Report of 2011, the number of elderly persons stood at 10.38 crore, accounting for 8.6% of the total population. As per projections by the National Commission on Population, this figure is estimated to reach 22.7 crore by 2036, constituting 15% of India’s total population.
- Demographic Shift: The demographic shift towards an aging population necessitates comprehensive policies and initiatives to address the unique challenges faced by senior citizens.
- Ensuring Social Inclusion: Empowering senior citizens through dedicated portals is a crucial step towards ensuring their social inclusion and well-being.
Important Points:
- The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment introduced two significant portals for senior citizens in India:
- SAGE (Seniorcare Aging Growth Engine) initiative and portal: Focuses on the well-being of elderly persons and promotes business innovation in the “silver economy.”
- Encourages entrepreneurs and start-ups to invest in elderly care products and services.
- Provides a “one-stop access” to credible start-ups offering elderly care solutions.
- SACRED (Senior Able Citizens for Re-Employment in Dignity) portal: Enables citizens above 60 to find suitable job opportunities.
- Allows senior citizens to register on the portal and explore job preferences.
- Connects senior citizens with private enterprises offering positions, fostering dignity and inclusivity.
- SAGE (Seniorcare Aging Growth Engine) initiative and portal: Focuses on the well-being of elderly persons and promotes business innovation in the “silver economy.”
- Senior citizens form a significant portion of India’s population:
- According to the Census Report of 2011, there were 10.38 crore senior citizens, comprising 8.6% of the total population.
- Projections estimate that by 2036, the number of elderly persons will rise to 22.7 crore, accounting for 15% of India’s total population.
- The growing elderly population necessitates comprehensive policies and initiatives:
- SAGE and SACRED portals address the unique challenges faced by senior citizens and empower them for active participation in society.
- Key goals of the portals:
- SAGE portal aims to encourage entrepreneurship and innovation in elderly care products and services.
- SACRED portal facilitates the re-employment of senior citizens, enabling them to contribute to society while maintaining dignity.
- Importance of social inclusion and well-being:
- Empowering senior citizens through dedicated portals enhances their quality of life and social inclusion.
- Continued investment in initiatives for senior citizens is crucial:
- As the elderly population continues to grow, it is essential to support and empower them in various spheres of life.
Why In News
The Minister of State for the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, during an address to the Rajya Sabha, provided crucial insights into the newly launched portals aimed at fostering inclusive growth and empowerment.These portals are set to revolutionize the way citizens access essential services, empowering marginalized communities and promoting greater social justice across the nation.
MCQs about The SAGE and SACRED Portals
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What is the main objective of the SAGE portal in India?
A. Promoting business innovation in the “silver economy” for senior citizens.
B. Providing job opportunities to senior citizens.
C. Offering a convenient platform for the government to interact with the elderly population.
D. Fostering educational opportunities for senior citizens.
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What is the key objective of the SACRED portal in India?
A. Encouraging senior citizens to start their own businesses.
B. Ensuring the active participation of senior citizens in the workforce.
C. Providing healthcare services to elderly citizens.
D. Offering educational resources to senior citizens.
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Why do initiatives like SAGE and SACRED become necessary in India?
A. To promote tourism among senior citizens.
B. To address the unique challenges faced by senior citizens in India.
C. To provide financial assistance to the elderly population.
D. To support the growth of start-ups in the country.
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