Vayoshreshtha Samman is a scheme of National Awards instituted by the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment (D/o Social Justice & Empowerment) initially in 2005 and upgraded to the status of National Awards in 2013, for institutions involved in rendering distinguished service for the cause of elderly persons especially indigent senior citizens and to eminent citizens in recognition of their service and achievements. These awards are presented as part of the celebration of the International Day of Older Persons (IDOP) on October 1.
“We understand the importance of the elderly persons. Our country believes in the notion of Vasudheva Kutumbakam the whole world is our family which inspires us to serve the elderly as our prime duty,” said Thaawarchand Gehlot
In 1990, the United Nations’ General Assembly vide Resolution 45/106 designated October 1 as the International Day of Older Persons. In 1991, the General Assembly vide Resolution No.46/91 adopted the United Nations’ principles for older persons. These 18 principles comprised of five clusters relating to the status of older persons viz. independence, participation, care, self-fulfilment and dignity. These principles were aimed “to add life to the years that have been added to life.” In 1992, the General Assembly adopted Resolution No.47/5 the Proclamation on Ageing and decided to observe 1999 as the International Year of older persons and to promote its theme A Society for all Ages.
The concept of theme, A Society for all Ages had its origin in the programme of action adopted at the World’s Summit for Social Development in Copenhagen in 1995. The fundamental aim of social integration was perceived as attainment of a Society where “every individual, each with rights and responsibilities, has an active role to play.” By integrating the Age into a Society for All, “the approach was multi-generational and holistic thereby generations invest in one another and share in the fruits of that investment, guided by the twin principles of reciprocity and equity.”