Page 6 - MAGICS ANUAL REPORT 2015-16

Adv.Eldhose Kunnappilly
Ernakulam District Panchayat president (2010-2015)

“
I am delighted to sign this declaration today the 16th of December 2014 that we would initiate
efforts that make the district of Ernakulam in Kerala State “Age-friendly”. Kerala state is changing and

its population is ageing with nearly 13% of its population above the age of 60 while the national

average is around 9%. This situation that prevails in the state poses a real challenge for the future. At

this juncture, Ernakulam District Panchayath (Local Self Government Department) accepts the
framework for age-friendly cities and communities proposed by the World Health Organization.

Instead of seeing older citizens negatively, the District Panchayath has decided to take actions that

would promote healthy and active ageing, improve services for older persons, keep them integrated

within the society, bridge intergenerational rifts citizens as valuable resources as we recognize their
skills and abilities. We also commit ourselves to adopt a continuous cycle of improvement whereby

concepts of equal rights, opportunities and outcomes for senior citizens are ensured. We feel it is

appropriate that plans and policies are put in place to make this district ‘Age-friendly’ where every

citizen can live their life to the fullest. By signing this commitment, we also wish being a more open and
age-friendly district.
”

3