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New Facility Provides Comfortable Living Space for Elders in Need
Gurugram, 04 May 2024 – The Rotary Club of Delhi South (RCDS), together with The Earth Saviours Foundation (TESF), inaugurated a new old age home in Mandawar village, marking a significant milestone in the organization’s ongoing commitment to provide shelter and care for the elderly in the community.
India is witnessing a significant demographic shift with a rapidly increasing elderly population. According to recent reports, the number of senior citizens aged 60 and above has been steadily rising. As of 2023, it is estimated that over 140 million of India’s population comprises senior citizens. This proportion is projected to continue growing in the coming years, making it crucial to address the challenges faced by this demographic. Factors such as familial neglect, low education levels, socio-cultural beliefs and stigma, low trust in institutionalized healthcare services and affordability hamper access to care for the elderly.
TESF, founded by the late Karma Yogi Shri Ravi Kalra and now ably managed by his son Shri Jas Kalra, has a long-standing commitment to caring for the elderly. The Vridha Ashram in the Mandawar village alone houses over 400 elders who have been abandoned by their families. TESF provides them with care, including healthy meals, medical attention, and a sense of belonging.
The new block, constructed with assistance from Rotary members comprises of two floors and a total area of 3,000 square feet, offering comfortable living space for 48-50 elders. Equipped with essential amenities like toilets, shower rooms, lighting, fans, air coolers, and beds, the facility aims to provide a dignified living environment for the elders.
Speaking at the occasion, the chief guest Rtn. Ajeet Jalan, District Governor 2026-27 of District 3011, India said, “We are proud of the Rotary Club of Delhi South which is celebrating its 55th anniversary. They are at the forefront of community services be it Leprosy. Polio, nari shakti, or providing shelter for elders. With the successful completion of this project, we yet again create hope in the world with the magic of Rotary.”
Expressing his thoughts, Rotarian Pramod Agarwal, President 2023-24 of RCDS said that “In a country like India, which is known for its respect for the elderly population, it is an unfortunate reality that they’re leading isolated and neglected lives. Rotary Club of Delhi South has joined hands with TESF to collectively work towards bettering the life of homeless and vulnerable elderly population by providing them with the necessary care and support to lead a dignified life.”
Shri Jas Kalra from TESF said, “This project is slated to become the world’s largest center dedicated to providing shelter and support for over 5,000 elderly, homeless, and destitute individuals in need. I am grateful to the Rotary Club members for their unwavering support in building a shelter at Mandawar Sewa Dham. Their generosity is a beacon of hope as we strive to uplift the lives of the less fortunate. With their kindness guiding us, we can rise above the challenges of today and pave the way for a brighter future for all.”
With one club in 1920, Rotary India has evolved into a vibrant community of over 2 lakh members spread across 4500+ Rotary clubs and 2900 Rotaract clubs. Through the commitment to service above self, Rotary members have exemplified what it means to be global citizens, bridging gaps and uniting people from different cultures and backgrounds for the greater good. Their unwavering dedication to sustainable projects reflects a shared responsibility to address the world’s most pressing challenges.
About Rotary: Rotary brings together a global network of volunteer leaders dedicated to tackling the world’s most pressing humanitarian challenges. Rotary connects 1.4 million members in over 200 countries and geographical areas. Their work improves lives at both the local and international levels, from helping those in need in their own communities to working toward a polio-free world. For more information, visit Rotary.org.