National Helpline for Senior Citizens: Elderline 14567
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Schemes
Why in news
Over 5.36 lakh citizens have taken a pledge under the 'Aging with Dignity' campaign, reinforcing India's commitment to the dignity, care, and respect of senior citizens. The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment continues to operate the Elderline 14567 helpline and the pledge initiative to ensure the well-being of the elderly.
Background
Elderline 14567 is a toll-free, all-India helpline dedicated to addressing the concerns and grievances of senior citizens. It was launched on October 1, 2021, and operates in all states and UTs from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, seven days a week. The 'Pledge' campaign encourages citizens to commit to caring for and respecting the elderly.
Key facts
Elderline 14567 is a toll-free national helpline for senior citizens, launched on October 1, 2021.
It operates from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, seven days a week, across all states and UTs.
Services include information on health facilities, old age homes, day-care centers, caregivers, and products for the elderly.
It provides advice on legal matters, pension issues, government schemes, care-related issues, and dispute resolution.
The helpline also offers rescue for abused or neglected elderly, reunites homeless seniors with families, and provides emotional support for loneliness, anxiety, and family conflicts.
Over 5.36 lakh citizens have taken the national pledge under the 'Aging with Dignity' campaign.
Participants receive a digital commitment certificate as a symbol of their dedication to elderly welfare.
The pledge emphasizes respecting, supporting, and advocating for senior citizens, and opposing elder abuse.
The helpline and campaign are run by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
Prelims pointers
- Elderline 14567
- National Helpline for Senior Citizens
- Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
- Aging with Dignity campaign
- Pledge initiative
- Toll-free helpline
- Launched on October 1, 2021
- Digital commitment certificate
Mains angles
- Discuss the role of helplines like Elderline in ensuring social justice for senior citizens.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of government schemes for elderly welfare in India.
- Analyze the importance of community participation in elder care through initiatives like the pledge campaign.