1. The Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens (MWPSC) Act: An Indian legislation aimed at safeguarding the rights of senior citizens, including parents, who are unable to support themselves financially. It imposes a legal obligation on children and grandchildren to provide financial support and maintenance to their elderly parents or grandparents if they are in need.
2. National Policy on Older Persons (NPOP): A policy framework in India aimed at providing state support to ensure the financial and food security, healthcare, shelter, protection against abuse and exploitation, and improved quality of life for older citizens, promoting their well-being and inclusivity in society.
3. Article 21 of Indian Constitution: Safeguards our right to life and personal liberty, ensuring that these rights can only be restricted through lawful procedures. It is a fundamental right and a core element of personal freedom in India.
4. Article 32 of Indian Constitution: It is a vital constitutional provision that grants individuals the right to approach the Supreme Court of India to seek justice when they believe their fundamental rights have been violated, empowering citizens to protect their rights through the highest court.
5. Article 41 of Indian Constitution: The well-being of senior citizens is mandated in the Constitution of India under Article 41. “The state shall within the limits of its economic capacity and development, make effective provision for securing the right to public assistance in cases of old age”. The Right to Equality is guaranteed by the Constitution as a fundamental right. Social security is the concurrent responsibility of the Central and State Governments.
6. Article 47 of Indian Constitution: : It directs the state governments to prioritize and enhance public health and nutrition, highlighting the government’s responsibility in this regard.
7. Clinical Establishment Act: Enacted by the Central Government in India, this legislation aims to register and regulate all clinical establishments in the country, with a view to prescribe minimum standards for facilities and services provided by these establishments to ensure quality healthcare delivery to patients.
8. Mental Healthcare Act: An Act aimed at providing mental healthcare and services for individuals with mental illness while protecting and promoting their rights during the delivery of mental healthcare and services. This act outlines provisions for the care and treatment of individuals with mental health conditions.
9. National Food Security Act (NFSA): ): An Indian law that legally entitles approximately 75% of the rural population and 50% of the urban population to receive subsidized foodgrains under Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS). This act aims to provide food security to those in need by granting access to essential food commodities.
10. National Health Policy: A policy framework in India that aims to achieve the highest possible level of health and well-being for all citizens of all ages. It emphasizes preventive and promotive healthcare across various developmental policies and seeks to provide universal access to high-quality healthcare services without causing financial hardship to individuals.
11. Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act: An Indian legislation that aims to protect and enhance the rights and interests of persons with disabilities. It promotes their inclusion and equal participation in society by prohibiting discrimination and ensuring accessibility, education, employment, and social security, among other provisions.