Thiruvananthapuram: In a bid to ensure the well-being of senior citizens, the state government has decided to form the Kerala State Elderly Commission. The Kerala Governor promulgated an Ordinance to this effect on Saturday.  

The commission will set guidelines for matters related to the welfare and protection of the elderly, collaborate with the government to assist with their rehabilitation, and provide legal aid whenever necessary, the Ordinance said.

Headed by a secretary-rank officer, the commission will have up to three members. Key functions of the panel will include probing into rights violations of the elderly, coordinating with government departments, managing care centres for abandoned elderly people, and advising the government on welfare programs. 

Additionally, the commission will have the authority to oversee investigations, provide recommendations to the government, and coordinate with various departments to address the needs of the elderly. It will also have the power to appoint officers and staff to assist in its functions, the Ordinance noted.