Lifelong Learning Policies and Provisions for Senior Citizens in India: An Overview

The population of senior citizens is on the rise in India. Keeping senior citizens engaged and active throughout their lives is a challenge that can be met by offering need-based lifelong learning opportunities to them. Senior citizens, in addition to their will and efforts, need support from the government and community to engage in lifelong learning in a productive and meaningful manner. Therefore, the right kind of policies and opportunities can help senior citizens practice lifelong learning and have maximum benefit. This paper analyses significant policies and provisions related to senior citizens' lifelong learning since India's independence in 1947. Based on this analysis, the paper suggests potential measures to realize the vision of 'Lifelong Learning for All Senior Citizens' in India.