Vayah Vikas launches senior citizen advocacy program in Chennai
Vayah Vikas, a leading organization dedicated to the welfare of senior citizens, has grown to over one lakh members in Karnataka since its inception four years ago. On March 17, 2025, Vayah Vikas marked its official launch in Chennai by hosting a high-level conclave at Tagore Hall, Madras University, in collaboration with Chennai International Centre (CIC) and the IIT Madras Alumni Association. As part of its expansion plans across India, Tamil Nadu was chosen for the next location due to its strong philanthropic culture, influential industry groups like TVS, etc. and a community of model senior citizens who can serve as influencers to accelerate membership and the spread of Vayah Vikas in the state. The event brought together policymakers, corporate leaders, healthcare professionals, and senior welfare advocates to address key challenges facing India`s aging population.
Founded by Kris Gopalakrishnan, Chairperson of Vayah Vikas & Co-founder of Infosys, the organization operates under the guidance of a distinguished board. Its website, vayah-vikas.org, serves as a vital resource for senior citizens.
Overview
The conclave organised two insightful panel discussions featuring eminent speakers.
Key Discussions
Panel 1: Role of Philanthropy and Corporate Involvement
(Moderated by Dr. (HC) Jamuna Ravi, CEO, Vayah Vikas)
- Mr. Kris Gopalakrishnan, Chairperson, Vayah Vikas & Co-founder, Infosys, emphasized the critical role of philanthropists in creating an equitable society through time and financial contributions. He highlighted the potential of technology in ensuring sustainable senior welfare initiatives.
- Mr. Lakshmi Narayanan, Co-founder & ex-CEO, Cognizant Technology Solutions, discussed how corporate foundations can foster a sense of purpose and value among senior citizens, ensuring they continue contributing meaningfully to society. He also stressed the need for digital literacy awareness.
- Mr. Dinesh, Executive Vice Chairman, TVS Supply Chain Solutions, shared insights on the TVS Group`s initiatives supporting underprivileged rural seniors and urged corporate collaboration to bridge the digital divide among the elderly.
Panel 2: Addressing Health & Dignified Aging for Underprivileged Seniors
(Moderated by Ms. Pavithra Reddy, COO, Vayah Vikas)
- Dr. Alexander Thomas, Founding Board Member, Vayah Vikas & Founder-Patron of AHPI, ANBAI, and CAHO, underscored the importance of healthcare accessibility for senenior citizens to age with dignity. He highlighted Vayah Vikas`s alignment with government policies under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment and the role of longevity research in promoting healthy aging.
- Mr. Murali, Founder & Managing Trustee, Sevalaya, emphasized the vital role of NGOs in sustaining senior citizen ecosystems, ensuring continued care and support.
- Mr. Shyam Vishwanath, Secretary, Dementia India Alliance, addressed the growing concerns around dementia and Alzheimer`s, advocating for collaborative efforts between senior citizens and corporates to improve senior care solutions.
Key Takeaways & Focus Areas
Dr. Alexander Thomas outlined the conclave`s key takeaways and strategic focus areas:
- Strengthening government-NGO partnerships to implement policies that create an equitable and sustainable ecosystem for senior citizens.
- Enhancing digital literacy to empower seniors and improve their access to essential services.
- Developing sustainable healthcare systems to address aging-related health challenges and strengthen social security and welfare for underprivileged seniors.
- Driving corporate and philanthropic engagement to establish long-term, impactful solutions for senior welfare.
The conclave concluded with a strong commitment to policy advocacy, corporate collaboration, and community-driven solutions. Vayah Vikas reaffirmed its mission to enhance the quality of life for India`s elderly through continued advocacy, support, and innovative initiatives.
