National Vayoshri Yojana: Over 9.23 Lakh Senior Citizens Received Assistive Devices
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Schemes
Why in news
Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment informed Lok Sabha about the achievements under Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana, including distribution of over 49.81 lakh assistive devices to more than 9.23 lakh senior citizens under National Vayoshri Yojana. The Elderline helpline (14567) now operates in 32 states/UTs, and 734 senior citizen homes receive support.
Background
Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana is an umbrella scheme of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment for the welfare of senior citizens. It includes National Vayoshri Yojana (assistive devices), Elderline helpline, Integrated Programme for Senior Citizens (support to old age homes), and SAGE (Seniorcare Aging Growth Engine) initiative to promote startups in elder care.
Key facts
Over 9.23 lakh (9,23,071) senior citizens received 49.81 lakh (49,81,380) assistive devices under National Vayoshri Yojana since inception.
Elderline helpline (14567) operates in 32 states/UTs, from 8 AM to 8 PM daily except national holidays.
734 senior citizen homes receive grant-in-aid under the Integrated Programme for Senior Citizens.
SAGE portal launched in August 2022; 131 applications received, 10 startups selected, and ₹9.05 crore financial assistance released.
Beneficiaries under National Vayoshri Yojana are senior citizens below poverty line or with monthly income up to ₹15,000.
No separate National Silver Policy is under consideration; government focuses on strengthening existing ecosystem under Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana.
Prelims pointers
- National Vayoshri Yojana
- Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana
- Elderline helpline number: 14567
- SAGE (Seniorcare Aging Growth Engine) portal
- Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
- Lok Sabha question answered by Minister of State B.L. Verma
- Date of release: 21 July 2026
- Integrated Programme for Senior Citizens
Mains angles
- Discuss the significance of schemes like Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana in ensuring social security and dignity for the elderly in India.
- Critically examine the role of assistive devices and helplines in improving the quality of life of senior citizens.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of government initiatives in promoting silver economy and elder care startups.