By Sarah Gillam
Arun Maira, 71, former member of the Planning Commission of India, is taking over as the next Chair of the Board of Trustees of HelpAge International.
Arun Maira has held leadership positions across the private as well as the public sectors, working with the Tata Group in India, and Arthur D Little in the USA, before returning to India as Chairman of the Boston Consulting Group.
In 2009, Mr Maira was appointed by the Prime Minister of India as a member of the Planning Commission and has been Chairman of the Axis Bank Foundation and Save the Children India. An author of several books and numerous articles, Mr Maira is considered to be one of India’s most eminent thought leaders.
Honoured to have been appointed
Mr Maira said: “I am honoured to have been appointed as Chair of HelpAge International at such an important time. The rate and speed of population ageing is unprecedented in human history and a hugely welcome stage in human development.
“However, the rights of older people, and the contribution they make to their families, communities and societies are far too often overlooked.
“I am looking forward to working with a growing movement of people and organisations committed to seeing a genuine transformation in the way the world thinks and acts about ageing and older people.”
Toby Porter, Chief Executive of HelpAge International, said: “We are simply thrilled that Arun Maira has accepted the position of our Chair.
“HelpAge International has such a relevant and a compelling mission. Already, one in ten of the world’s population is over 60. By 2050, that will be one in five, an estimated 2 billion people.
Embarking on an exciting journey
“Ageing should be positive both for individuals and for societies. Many older people around the world live healthier, more secure lives than those of past generations.
“Security of income and health, physical safety, and freedom from discrimination in old age are attainable goals, even in the poorest countries. Achieving these goals will enable older men and women to realise their contributions to their communities and wider society.
“There are so many areas where the HelpAge global network can benefit from Arun’s experience and leadership. We need a genuine transformation in both attitudes and policies in countries with ageing populations, and we look forward to Arun’s leadership as we embark on the exciting journey ahead.”
Mr Maira will take over from Cindy Cox Roman in November who will be retiring from the Board on completion of her term of office.