Thiruvananthapuram: The state govt has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Centre for Management Development (CMD) to conduct a statewide baseline survey of senior citizens as part of govt’s 100-day programme.The survey aims to assess the health, social and economic conditions and daily living circumstances of senior citizens, besides identifying gaps in access to social security schemes and services. The findings will be used to plan future programmes based on the priorities and needs of the elderly and to support evidence-based policymaking.The survey will cover people aged 60 and above across all 14 districts, with around 3,000 interviews to be conducted. A scientific multistage random sampling method will be adopted to ensure adequate representation of different age groups — 60-69, 70-79 and 80 and above — and geographical categories, including urban, semi-urban and rural areas. Vulnerable regions such as coastal, forest and tribal areas will also be adequately represented.Sampling will be carried out at the district, local self-govt, ward and household levels. Trained enumerators will collect data through direct interviews using a standardised survey schedule.As part of the exercise, a state-level workshop will also be organised involving senior citizens, caregivers, local representatives and officials from various govt departments.The final report will be submitted to department of elderly welfare within three months of completing the data collection.The MoU was signed in chief minister V D Satheesan’s chamber in his presence. Secretary of department of elderly welfare Rathan U Kelkar, chief minister’s office on duty secretary N S K Umesh, social justice department director Arun S Nair and CMD director Jayashankar Prasad attended the ceremony.
