Collector Hyderabad is redefining what compassionate governance looks like by bringing together the energy of youth and experience of its elderly. Leading this shift is IAS Harichandana Dasari, the 2010-batch Telangana cadre officer currently serving as Collector of Hyderabad.

Known for making governance more accessible, empathetic and rooted in real community needs, her recent initiative “Senior Saathi” has quickly become a standout effort offering practical and emotional support to senior citizens in a fast-changing urban landscape. “I am particularly passionate about our Senior Saathis program.” She shared 

Senior Saathi: A Compassionate Bridge Between Generations 

The Senior Saathi initiative is a first-of-its-kind intergenerational companionship programme designed to address one of the most overlooked challenges in urban India, lack of  companionship and purpose during old age. “13.4% of older adults (aged 60+) reported frequent feelings of loneliness & depression, associated with illnesses like Alzheimers, dementia, and cognitive decline.”

Recognizing that a rapidly modernising city like Hyderabad, where children often live abroad and nuclear families are the norm, thousands of elderly residents quietly navigate long days without companionship. Loneliness, digital helplessness and fear of online frauds have become struggles for many.

To counter this, the programme brings together youth volunteers called Saath is and senior citizens for meaningful weekend interactions. Young people commit four hours a week to spend time with the elderly in community halls, parks, senior citizen clubs or designated gathering spaces. These engagements range from casual conversations, playing indoor games and taking walks to learning digital tools such as using mobile phones, navigating WhatsApp or avoiding online scams.

Based on a simple philosophy of Companionship Over Caregiving , the initiative is not meant to provide caregiving, but companionship rooted in empathy and dignity. Elders share life experiences, skills and knowledge while youth offer energy, time and a sense of connection-creating a mutual exchange that enriches both generations.

To ensure safety and trust, volunteers undergo training and basic background checks. In coordination with the Hyderabad District Collector’s Office, interactions are monitored with the support of Resident Welfare Associations,the Senior Citizens Welfare Department and organisations like Youngistaan Foundation. The design of the programme emphasises dignity, boundaries and comfort-no medical duties, no financial involvement and no home entry unless mutually agreed upon. “This is a multi-stakeholder initiative, Everyone has a role to play, and the programme is designed to be deeply impactful.”

WhatsApp Administration: Governance at Citizens’ Fingertips

Another major step under Dasari leadership is the introduction of WhatsApp-based public service delivery, making Hyderabad one of the most digitally accessible districts in India. Citizens can now obtain services such as caste certificates, birth certificates, revenue petitions, pensions and more through a simple WhatsApp chat. “The platform is user-friendly, disabled-friendly, and available in Telugu and Hindi, ensuring seamless access for diverse populations” She shared 

IAS Harichandana Dasari is not just improving living standards but the overall quality of life, showing that true progress is measured not only in development but in how a city cares for its people. Through every weekend conversation and every WhatsApp interaction, Hyderabad is steadily building a more inclusive and compassionate future.