Special Correspondent: Arun Sharma
New Delhi | March 30, 2026

A meaningful and engaging seminar focusing on the dignity, safety, and social well-being of senior citizens was organised in the national capital, bringing together prominent voices from across society. The discussion, themed “Senior Citizens in India – Prosperous or Distressed?”, created an atmosphere of awareness and reflection. The highlight of the event was veteran social worker Sardari Lal, whose presence and powerful insights added depth and inspiration to the gathering.


The programme was organized by Varishth Nagrik Awaaz Patrika Parivar and witnessed participation from social activists, intellectuals, and representatives of senior citizen groups.


Sardari Lal’s Address Captivates the Audience
In his keynote address, Sardari Lal emphasized, “The true identity of a society lies in how it treats its elderly.”
He expressed deep concern over the current condition of senior citizens and urged both the government and society to work collectively to ensure a safe, dignified, and self-reliant life for them. His speech resonated emotionally with the audience and received a warm round of applause.


Key Dignitaries Stress Health, Respect, and Security
Dr. Girish C. Gupta
He highlighted the importance of regular health check-ups, balanced nutrition, and mental well-being for senior citizens. He also urged families to provide emotional support and care to their elders.


Dr. Amar Nath Amar (Chairperson)
He underlined that awareness is the first step towards change and stressed the vital role of media and society in safeguarding the rights of the elderly.


Eye Health Awareness by Dr. Sameer Sood
Dr. Sameer Sood provided valuable insights into common eye problems among senior citizens, including cataract, glaucoma, retinal disorders, and dry eye syndrome.
He advised:
Regular eye examinations are essential
Limit excessive screen exposure
Include Vitamin A-rich foods in diet
Use sunglasses while outdoors
Keep diabetes and blood pressure under control
He cautioned that negligence can turn minor issues into serious conditions.


Special Messages from Distinguished Guests
M.K. Raina
Stressed the importance of social engagement, noting that loneliness is becoming a major concern among the elderly.


Dr. Abha Chaudhary
Emphasized healthcare awareness among senior women, highlighting the need for regular check-ups and proper nutrition.


Vinay Deshmukh Devgaonkar
Described senior citizens as a valuable repository of experience that must be respected and preserved.


Harishankar Singh
Focused on safety and legal awareness, urging senior citizens to stay informed about their rights.


A Blend of Culture and Dialogue
A cultural presentation by Sangeet Surabhi added a vibrant and emotional touch to the event, complementing the ongoing discussions.


Conclusion: A Call for Collective Responsibility


The seminar concluded with a strong message advocating greater societal sensitivity toward senior citizens.
In closing, Sardari Lal once again stood out as the soul of the event, reinforcing the idea that respect for the elderly defines a civilized and compassionate society.


The programme not only succeeded in raising awareness but also established itself as a meaningful initiative dedicated to improving the lives of senior citizens.