| Aspect | Detail |
| Modernization Impact | |
| Perceived Decay | Modernization has contributed to a perceived decay of traditional social values, family cohesiveness, and character attributes. |
| Religious Rites | While still observed, are sometimes becoming more ritualistic than deeply spiritual. |
| Maintenance of Parents and Dependents Bill 2001 | |
| Purpose | To compel the younger generation to fulfill their moral obligations towards their families and prevent the aged and destitute from being abandoned. |
| Alignment | Aligns with Articles 38 and 41 of the Indian Constitution (public assistance in cases of old age, sickness, disablement, and undeserved want). |
| Historical Significance | Himachal Pradesh was the first state in the Indian Union to enact such a law. |
| Preamble Statement | The tendency to neglect the aged and infirm is increasing. |
| Applicability | Applies to all communities in Himachal Pradesh, with the exception of Muslims. |
| Definition of “Dependents” | Includes parents/grandparents unable to maintain themselves; minor sons/daughters from extramarital relationships; minor sons unable to obtain maintenance from parents’ estate; widowed daughters unable to obtain maintenance from husband’s/son’s/daughter’s/father-in-law’s/grandfather’s estate; unmarried daughters/daughters of predeceased sons (as long as unmarried); granddaughters unable to obtain maintenance from parents’ estate; widows of sons/predeceased sons’ sons (as long as not remarried, and unable to obtain maintenance from husband’s/son’s/daughter’s/father-in-law’s estate). |
| Expected Outcome | Expected to reinforce a sense of responsibility among social constituents and foster a more cohesive and respectable society. |
| Additional Requirement | Social awareness campaigns are considered equally vital alongside legal provisions to discourage nuclear and solitary life pleasures. |
