@ Vikash Sharma | Sr Journalist
New Delhi: The Society for Empowerment (SFE) hosted the launch of the December 2024 issue of its flagship monthly magazine, *Prarambh*, alongside a special discussion on *”The Role of Senior Citizens in the Digital Age”*. The event, held at the esteemed India International Centre, focused on the transformative impact of the digital revolution on senior citizens.
### Distinguished Speakers
– **Professor S. Narayan**, Chairman, SFE
– **B. P. Singh**, Former Governor of Sikkim and Former Home Secretary, Government of India
– **Dr. Chandrakant S. Pandav**, Renowned as the “Iodine Man of India”
– **K. C. Srivastava**, Director, India International Centre
– **Professor S. S. Bhakerai**, Academician
### Contributions of Senior Citizens in the Digital Age
The event highlighted that senior citizens are no longer passive spectators but are emerging as active contributors, bridging the digital divide through their engagement with technology. Shri N. N. Pandey, Editor of *Prarambh*, remarked, *“Senior citizens possess a wealth of experience and knowledge. When paired with digital tools, they can create transformative and positive societal impacts.”*
### Key Highlights of the Event
1. **Employment and Skill Development**
Initiatives like SFE’s *Senior Jobs* platform are helping senior citizens contribute to the economy and acquire new skills.
2. **Entrepreneurship and Financial Literacy**
Programs such as the Investor Meet, organized in collaboration with the National Stock Exchange (NSE), empower senior citizens to manage finances and launch small businesses effectively.
3. **Social Connectivity and Learning**
Through social media and online platforms, seniors are staying connected with loved ones, sharing knowledge, and learning new skills.
4. **Health and Wellness**
Digital technology is enhancing access to healthcare services. Senior citizens are leveraging telemedicine, yoga, and Ayurveda for holistic well-being.
5. **Cybersecurity and Awareness**
Discussions on cybersecurity emphasized the importance of protecting seniors from online threats, with recommendations for participating in cyber literacy workshops.
### Insights from Key Speakers
**B. P. Singh** elaborated on the transformative impact of information technology (IT) on women in rural and urban India, stating, *“IT has empowered women economically, socially, and educationally.”*
**Dr. Chandrakant S. Pandav** discussed the role of social media in promoting iodine use for public health. He noted, *“Social media has significantly contributed to raising awareness and combating iodine deficiency.”*
### Significance of the Program
Professor S. Narayan, Chairman, SFE, emphasized, *“The digital era presents both opportunities and challenges for senior citizens. By addressing mental health and bridging the digital divide, we can empower them to contribute meaningfully to society.”*
### About the Society for Empowerment (SFE)
The Society for Empowerment (SFE) is a pioneering organization dedicated to empowering senior citizens. Through initiatives in health, employment, and digital literacy, SFE provides support and resources to ensure seniors lead enriched and productive lives.
This event showcased the vital role senior citizens play in fostering societal progress and prosperity in the digital age.
