Navigating the New Normal: Exploring the Roadmap for Long-Term Care Services in India in the Era of COVID-19

India is undergoing an epidemiological transition, with the proportion of the population aged 60 and over expected to reach 19% by 2050. The ongoing demographic transition necessitates a critical reassessment of Long-Term Support and Services (LTSS), especially as traditional family and community-based care models face challenges due to socio-cultural changesSocial issuessocio-cultural changes and limited governmental support. There is a growing recognition of the limitations of institutionalized long-term care even in developed countries particularly as they emerged as the loci for COVID-19 mortality. This situation has catalysed a reappraisal of LTSS frameworks, signalling that conventional models prevalent in other parts of the world may not align with India's unique needs and socio-economic context. Therefore, it is important to explore sui generis LTSS models that respect the preferences and conditions of India's aging population. Unfortunately, research on LTSS in India is limited for various reasons including a lack of data and interest among policymakers. This study aims to mitigate this gap in the literature by exploring the LTSS landscape in India, identifying the existing gaps in governance, funding, and the availability of trained geriatric care professionals. It proposes targeted policy interventions aimed at establishing a robust, inclusive LTSS framework capable of supporting the dignity and well-being of older adults in India. These recommendations are crafted with consideration for India's economic realities and the need for sustainable, cost-effective care models. By addressing the unique challenges and opportunities in LTSS development, this chapter seeks to contribute to the ongoing discourse on aging and care in India, laying the groundwork for future advancements.