The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment is implementing a comprehensive range of initiatives under the Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana (AVYAY) to promote the welfare, dignity and social security of senior citizens across the country. The flagship initiatives under the scheme include the Elderline – National Helpline for Senior Citizens (14567), the Integrated Programme for Senior Citizens (IPSrC), the Seniorcare Ageing Growth Engine (SAGE) and the Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana (RVY). These initiatives collectively aim to ensure accessible support services, institutional care, technological innovation and assistive devices for elderly citizens.

This information was given by Hon’ble Minister Of State For Social Justice & Empowerment Shri B.L. Verma, in a written reply to the questions put forth by the Hon’ble Members of the Parliament including Dr. D. Purandeswari, Shri Atul Garg, Shri Arun Bharti, Smt. Shambhavi and Dr. Lata Wankhade.

The Minister answered that the Elderline (14567) is presently operational in 32 States and Union Territories and provides information, guidance, emotional support, intervention, rescue and grievance redressal services for senior citizens. The helpline functions from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM on all days except National Holidays, ensuring timely assistance to elderly persons in need.

The written reply further explained that under the Integrated Programme for Senior Citizens (IPSrC), the Ministry is currently supporting 734 Senior Citizen Homes through grants-in-aid for their operation and maintenance. These homes provide institutional care and essential services to elderly persons, particularly those who are indigent or in need of assistance.

The Ministry has launched the Seniorcare Ageing Growth Engine (SAGE) initiative. He said that since the launch of the SAGE portal in August 2022, 131 applications have been received, out of which 10 start-ups have been selected after due diligence with financial assistance amounting to ₹9.5 crore. released to promote innovative products and services for senior citizens and strengthen the silver economy.

Under Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana (RVY), the ministry is providing physical assistive devices and living aids to eligible senior citizens suffering from age-related disabilities.

The House was informed that since the inception of the scheme, 49,81,380 assistive devices have been distributed among 9,23,071 senior citizens belonging to the Below Poverty Line category or those having a monthly income up to ₹15,000, enabling them to lead independent and dignified lives.

Replying to another supplementary question, it was informed that there is currently no proposal under consideration for introducing a separate National Silver Policy.

The Government continues to strengthen the existing ecosystem for senior citizens through integrated welfare programmes under AVYAY, ensuring better care, social inclusion and improved quality of life, the Minister asserteds.

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PR-22-TAR/KV/GA

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