India Can Become Global Leader in Affordable Caregiving: NITI

Lahiri said the report provides a comprehensive roadmap to strengthen institutional convergence, empower both family and professional caregivers, and position India as a global hub for skilled caregiving services.

The document outlines India’s existing caregiving ecosystem and sets out a plan for building an organised, professional, accessible and future-ready system of care.

Dr R Balasubramaniam, Member, NITI Aayog, observed that ‘Seva and Samvedana’ have long been central to India’s civilisational ethos and that caregiving reflects these values. He said a robust caregiving ecosystem would strengthen social inclusion, foster a caring society, empower communities, create quality livelihoods and contribute to the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047.

The report organises its recommendations across several strategic pillars, including policy, professional recognition of caregivers, workforce development, global cooperation, social security, and family- and community-based care. It proposes a National Policy on Caregiving and the creation of a National Caregiver Council as key institutional steps toward an organised professional framework.

By linking domestic needs with international demand, the report frames caregiving both as a social priority and as a potential source of skilled employment and soft power for India. Implementation of the recommended policy and institutional measures will determine how effectively the country can expand access to affordable care while raising the status and security of those who provide it.