Panel Discussion on “Aging Redefined: FLO’s Commitment to Elder Empowerment & Care” and Launch of the FICCI FLO & Rama Tandon Skilling Institute

Under the visionary leadership of FICCI FLO National President, Ms. Joyshree Das Verma, a thought-provoking panel discussion titled “Aging Redefined: FLO’s Commitment to Elder Empowerment & Care” was held at SHEOWS Care Centre.

This event, organized under the Elderly Care vertical of FLO’s National Initiative on Policy and Advocacy, focused on addressing the challenges of aging and promoting elder empowerment through innovative solutions. The event also marked the launch of the FICCI FLO & Rama Tandon Skilling Institute, a groundbreaking initiative dedicated to empowering women through vocational training in collaboration with Singer India.

The event commenced with Ms. Meetu Kohli, Past Chairperson of FLO Indore, welcoming esteemed guests, including National President Ms. Joyshree Das Verma, FLO members, distinguished panelists, staff, and senior residents of SHEOWS. A two-minute silence was observed in remembrance of Ritu Soni Bhagat, a cherished FLO member, setting a tone of gratitude and reflection. Ms. Kohli highlighted the significance of the initiative, acknowledging the efforts of Ms. Poonam Mahajan, Governing Body Member and Initiative Lead for FLO Policy & Advocacy, and her dedicated team in bringing this vision to life.

The event was formally inaugurated with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp, symbolizing knowledge, wisdom, and hope. This was followed by the felicitation of distinguished speakers and panelists with Green Certificates, a meaningful initiative where trees were planted in their names as a tribute to their contributions. The honorees included Dr. Giridhar Prasad Bhagat, Founder of SHEOWS; Mr. Prasad Bhide, Founder of Aaji Care Mumbai; Mr. Pankaj Mehrotra, Senior Care Consultant; Dr. Vijay Kumar Gurjar, Senior Consultant & HOD – Geriatric Care at Primus Super Speciality Hospital; and Mr. Alok Kansal, a beneficiary from SHEOWS CARE.

In her keynote address, National President Ms. Joyshree Das Verma emphasized the importance of elder care as a societal responsibility. Quoting Victor Hugo, she highlighted that aging should be celebrated as a phase of wisdom and resilience. She acknowledged the evolving demographic landscape of India, with the elderly population projected to reach 347 million by 2050, and stressed the need for inclusive policies, intergenerational bonds, and leveraging technology for elder care. She applauded the efforts of SHEOWS, which has provided shelter and dignity to over 10,000 elders, and called for greater advocacy and innovation in elder care services.

The highlight of the event was the launch of the FICCI FLO & Rama Tandon Skilling Institute, a transformative initiative empowering women through vocational training in sewing and tailoring. With 24 students already enrolled, this institute aims to create employment opportunities, fostering self-reliance and financial independence. The initiative, established on March 23, 2024, is supported by the Mehr Chand Mahajan Trust and land donated by Rama Tandon. FLO members and stakeholders lauded this step as a crucial milestone in women’s empowerment and economic inclusion.

The panel discussion, moderated by Ms. Poonam Mahajan, featured insightful conversations on elder care models, healthcare advancements, and emotional well-being. Dr. Giridhar Prasad Bhagat shared the journey of SHEOWS, stressing the need for compassionate and sustainable elder care solutions. Mr. Prasad Bhide spoke about innovative home healthcare models, while Mr. Pankaj Mehrotra addressed policy interventions for senior citizens. Dr. Vijay Kumar Gurjar emphasized the need for specialized geriatric healthcare, and Mr. Alok Kansal, a SHEOWS resident, provided a heartfelt testimony on the transformative impact of elder care organizations.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Governing Body Member Ms. Bela Rajan, who acknowledged the dedication of the Senior Care Vertical Team, including Meetu Kohli, Bela Rajan, Veena Thapar, Namita Dublish, Poonam Kochhar, Shuchi Amar, Alka Talwar, and Aparajita Amar. She reiterated FLO’s commitment to ensuring dignity, respect, and support for the elderly.

This event marked an important step in FLO’s advocacy for elder care and women’s empowerment, reinforcing the organization’s mission to create inclusive and sustainable solutions for the nation’s evolving socio-economic landscape.