00 Experts shared their experiences in the state level workshop, pledged for a drug-free society and respect for senior citizens
Raipur. A state level workshop on the subject of building a smooth and strong care economy was organized in Raipur by the Social Welfare Department, Chhattisgarh Government. The workshop was inaugurated under the chief hospitality of Women and Child Development and Social Welfare Minister Smt. Laxmi Rajwade. On this occasion, Secretary of Social Welfare Department Smt. Shehla Nigar, Director Shri Ranveer Sharma, State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities Shri Ramjivan Devangan along with senior officers of various departments, subject experts, representatives of development supporting organizations and a large number of participants were present.

In her address, Minister Laxmi Rajwade stated that the care economy is not just about social welfare, but a fundamental requirement for a developed India and a developed Chhattisgarh. She added that creating a respectful, safe, and inclusive environment for the elderly, the disabled, women, and children is the need of the hour. Investment in the care sector increases employment opportunities, empowers women's participation, and makes society more sensitive and inclusive. She stated that, in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's commitment to a developed India by 2047 and under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai, the state government is effectively implementing schemes related to social security, disabled welfare, elderly services, rehabilitation, skill development, and women and child development. She called on all departments to work with a spirit of convergence to build a strong care economy.

During the program, guests and participants took a collective pledge to build a drug-free society, respect and care for senior citizens, and support the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan. They also pledged to be sensitive to the elderly, ensure their dignity, safety, and health, and play an active role in fostering a positive social environment.
During the workshop's technical sessions, Dr. A.C. Reddy of the National Institute of Social Defence delivered a lecture on the central role of the care economy in building a developed India. Mr. Basavaraju S., Secretary, Department of Skill Development, Technical Education, and Employment, shared his views on the employment opportunities in the care economy. Dr. Smit Srivastava, a senior cardiologist from Raipur, provided insights into the care economy model and the importance of nutrition for senior citizens. A UNICEF expert presented on child care and protection, while representatives from HelpAge India discussed the current status and future prospects of geriatric care in the state.

Additionally, experts from Rights and Inclusion India, Tata Trusts, SOS Children's Village, State Health Resource Centre, Labour Department, and others shared their experiences on topics such as rehabilitation of persons with disabilities, the role of self-help groups, mental health, social security, skill development, digital care models, and community participation. Participants were divided into thematic groups during the workshop to develop suggestions for strengthening the care economy in the state. Recommendations received through group presentations were discussed and will be incorporated into the department's future policies and action plans

In the program, Minister Smt. Laxmi Rajwade expressed confidence that the suggestions received from the workshop will prove to be an important basis in building a strong, inclusive, sensitive and employment-oriented care economy in Chhattisgarh and will help in establishing the state among the leading states of the country in this field.