Zhejiang is set to hold annual meetings of its top legislature and political advisory body, as deputies and political advisers prepare to attend the meetings carrying public concerns and policy proposals to Hangzhou.

Deputies to the provincial legislature and members of the political advisory body are expected to submit suggestions and proposals based on grassroots research and public feedback, as the province begins planning for the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-30).

Feng Zhigang, vice-chairman and secretary-general of the Zhejiang Women and Children's Foundation, has focused his work on issues affecting women and children since becoming a member of the provincial CPPCC in 2018. His efforts have included support for left-behind and disadvantaged children in rural areas, as well as long-term assistance for rural women and other vulnerable groups.

This year, Feng's proposal centers on families who have lost their only child. He and his team conducted visits to 350 such households across the province. Their analysis showed a depression rate of 44 percent among these families, with more than half of the women experiencing varying degrees of depression, significantly higher than among men. One contributing factor identified was insufficient access to emotional outlets and social support.

Based on the findings, Feng is refining recommendations that include providing diversified eldercare options tailored to different family situations and strengthening coordinated psychological support services, such as regular companionship activities and guided exercise programs, to improve emotional well-being in later life.

The fourth session of the 14th Zhejiang Provincial People's Congress will be held in Hangzhou from Jan 14 to 17. The fourth session of the 13th Zhejiang Provincial Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference will take place from Jan 13 to 16, also in Hangzhou.