He said the number of people over 60 in the country is about 16 million, which is nearly one-tenth of the total population. By 2050, this number may reach 50 million. Therefore, older persons should not be seen merely as an age number, but must be built up as healthy, safe and dignified social assets.

He said these things while speaking as chief guest at a discussion event on the International Day of Older Persons organized by the Department of Social Services in Dhaka on Wednesday. This year's theme of the day was ‘New thinking for a long life’.

The minister said the government's existing allowance for older persons is not enough. The allowance needs to be increased to bring more people under social security. At the same time, social initiatives are also essential alongside government initiatives for the healthcare and overall welfare of older persons.

Earlier, the minister took part in a rally organized in front of the Elderly Welfare Association in Agargaon as part of a young-old reunion fair. Later, a discussion meeting was held at the auditorium of the Department of Social Services.

At the meeting, speakers demanded increased older-person-friendly healthcare, public transport and public-private facilities, income and savings security, and social support for older persons unable to work. At the same time, recommendations were made to establish a Directorate of Older Persons, eliminate discrimination against older women, and increase education, employment, healthcare, housing and food assistance for older persons in districts and upazilas.