HelpAge India has welcomed the Union Budget 2026–27, appreciating its people-centric approach and the attention given to areas that directly impact India’s growing elderly population. The organisation noted that several budget measures align closely with the needs of senior citizens, particularly in healthcare, livelihoods, mental health and digital inclusion.

Rohit Prasad, CEO of HelpAge India, said the Budget addresses key enablers required for healthy and dignified ageing. “Budget 2026–27 touches upon important areas such as livelihoods, caregiving, mental health, digital systems and healthcare affordability. One of the most significant steps is the focus on geriatric caregiving and allied care services, aimed at building a strong care ecosystem through trained, multi-skilled caregivers,” he said. He added that this is a crucial pillar of the long-term care system India urgently needs as life expectancy continues to rise.

Prasad also welcomed the proposal to set up a second NIMHANS and upgrade national mental health institutes across the country. “This move will greatly improve access to quality mental healthcare, especially for the elderly, who are more vulnerable to mental health conditions. NIMHANS Bengaluru has already set a strong example through initiatives like Vayomanasa Sanjeevani, which focuses on the mental health needs of older adults. The new measures will give fresh momentum to such efforts,” he said.

Highlighting healthcare challenges faced by senior citizens, Prasad pointed out that non-communicable diseases (NCDs) remain the biggest health concern for older adults and a major reason for high medical expenses. “The increased focus on healthcare and prevention is timely. However, there is a need for more targeted interventions specifically aimed at preventing and managing NCDs among the elderly,” he noted.

On the livelihoods front, Prasad emphasised the importance of financial independence in ensuring dignity in old age. He welcomed the strengthening of livelihoods through NRLM-linked Self Help Entrepreneur (SHE) Marts, noting that elder inclusion is already part of the NRLM framework. “At HelpAge, we work closely with Elder Self-Help Groups through our livelihood initiatives.

A renewed push for community-based enterprises and better market access will benefit older women and men who wish to remain economically active,” he said. He added that elder-led enterprises should be supported through age-friendly designs, flexible norms, easier access to credit and better convergence with pensions, healthcare and social protection schemes.

Referring to the government’s digital vision under Viksit Bharat, Prasad said the strong push towards AI and digital infrastructure opens new opportunities to improve eldercare through telehealth, assistive technologies and more responsive public services. “To ensure seniors are not left behind, investments in digital literacy, assisted access, vernacular interfaces and accessibility by design are essential,” he said.

Concluding his remarks, Prasad stressed the need for a mission-driven and scaled approach to eldercare as India prepares for a rapidly ageing population.

“Older persons must be recognised as a distinct constituency, with dedicated investments in income security, long-term care, digital inclusion and age-responsive public systems. HelpAge India remains committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure that longer lives in India are marked by dignity, security and wellbeing for every senior citizen,” he said.