AGING, POVERTY AND POLICY RESPONSES IN SOUTH ASIA; OVERVIEWING SRI LANKAN SITUATION COMPARATIVELY REGIONAL CONTEXT

Abstract

Population ageing is rapidly accelerating across South Asia, where poverty, informality, and weak social protection systems exacerbate the vulnerabilities of older persons. Sri Lanka, with its early demographic transition and welfare-oriented policy tradition, provides a distinctive context for regional comparison. This study examines ageing and elderly poverty in South Asia, compares social protection policies in Sri Lanka, India, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, evaluates Sri Lanka's policy strengths and gaps, and proposes regionally informed reforms. A qualitative approach was employed, involving a literature review, policy document analysis, and comparative assessment of demographic and socio-economic data, focusing on coverage, adequacy, inclusiveness, and sustainability. Findings reveal that Nepal's universal pension substantially reduces elderly poverty but faces sustainability challenges, while India's National Social Assistance Programme offers broad coverage but inadequate benefits and uneven implementation. Bangladesh and Pakistan demonstrate fragmented and limited systems, with significant gaps for informal workers and rural elders. Although Sri Lanka has a structured legal and policy framework, including the National Policy for Senior Citizens, its elder protection is constrained by fragmented service delivery, low pension adequacy, and limited coverage for informal-sector workers. Despite these challenges, Sri Lanka remains better positioned than most regional peers but requires integrated reforms. Lessons from Nepal's universal approach and India's scale can inform the development of a sustainable, rights-based social protection system. Strengthening inter-ministerial coordination, expanding non-contributory pensions, and introducing community-based eldercare models are recommended.