The Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana (AVYAY) is a flagship government initiative launched by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE) to enhance the quality of life for senior citizens in India. The Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana aims to provide comprehensive social, financial, and healthcare support while promoting active, healthy, and dignified ageing among the elderly population.
India’s population of senior citizens, aged 60 years and above, is projected to reach 23 crore by 2036, emphasizing the urgent need for structured support systems. The Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana (AVYAY), formerly known as the National Action Plan for Senior Citizens (NAPSrC), was relaunched in April 2021 to offer a comprehensive and integrated framework for the welfare, health, and financial security of India’s elderly population.
Date of Launch/Relabeling
- Initially launched as National Action Plan for Senior Citizens (NAPSrC).
- Relaunched and renamed as Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana (AVYAY) in April 2021.
Nodal Ministry
- The Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment (MoSJE) plans, runs, and monitors the Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana to ensure senior citizens across India receive proper care, support, and benefits.
Core Aim
- Ensure dignified, secure, and productive lives for senior citizens.
- Promote active ageing, financial independence, and social engagement.
- Address the challenges posed by India’s rapidly ageing population.
Key Components of the Scheme
| Component | Purpose & Key Details | Target Beneficiaries |
|---|---|---|
| Integrated Programme for Senior Citizens (IPSrC) | Under the Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana (AVYAY), grants-in-aid are provided for establishing and maintaining Senior Citizen Homes and Continuous Care Homes. These homes offer shelter, nutritious food, medical care, and recreational activities, ensuring a safe and dignified environment for senior citizens. | Indigent senior citizens through NGOs and state governments. As of August 2025, 696 homes are operational. |
| Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana (RVY) | Provides free assistive devices such as wheelchairs, hearing aids, dentures, and walking sticks to overcome age-related disabilities. | Senior citizens who are Below Poverty Line (BPL) or with monthly income ≤ ₹15,000. |
| Elderline (National Helpline) | A toll-free helpline (14567) that provides information, guidance, emotional support, and help in situations involving elder abuse. Operational 8 AM–8 PM daily. | All senior citizens and their families. |
| SACRED Portal | Online platform connecting senior citizens (60+) with private sector job opportunities. | Senior citizens seeking employment and private companies requiring experienced personnel. |
| SAGE Initiative | Supports start-ups developing innovative products and services for elderly care. Offers funding support of up to ₹1 crore for each project. | Entrepreneurs and start-ups focused on elder care solutions. |
Eligibility Criteria
For Individual Senior Citizens
- Age: 60 years and above.
- Financial Criteria (RVY): Must be a BPL cardholder or have a monthly income not exceeding ₹15,000.
- Need-Based Eligibility (IPSrC): Priority given to indigent, destitute, or abandoned elders for admission to Senior Citizen Homes.
- Selection Process:
- RVY devices are distributed through identification camps organized by implementing agencies.
- IPSrC admissions are overseen by district-level committees based on need.
For Organizations (NGOs/Trusts)
- Legal Registration: Must be registered under the Societies Registration Act, Public Trust Act, or other relevant acts for at least two years.
- Experience: Should have experience in the social sector or elderly care.
- Governance: Must maintain a valid managing committee, audited accounts, and a functional bank account.
- Selection Process:
- Organizations submit proposals via the E-anudaan portal (grants-msje.gov.in).
- The Ministry’s Screening Committee evaluates proposals based on organizational track record, project need, and compliance with guidelines.
Application Process
RVY (Assistive Devices)
- Senior citizens can apply on-site at identification camps organized by ALIMCO or district social welfare offices.
- Applications are facilitated at the camp, and devices are provided free of cost.
SACRED Portal (Employment)
- Seniors can register online on the SACRED portal, create a profile, and explore job opportunities.
IPSrC Grants (NGOs/VOs)
- Eligible organizations must apply online via the E-anudaan portal.
- Required documents include project proposal, registration certificates, audited financial statements, and budget plans.
- Approval is granted by the Screening Committee after evaluation.
Financial Aspects
Grants for Organizations
- IPSrC Homes: Grants up to ₹2 crore depending on home size (25-bed, 50-bed) and location.
- Funds cover operational costs, staff salaries, food, medical facilities, and maintenance.
Equity Support for Start-ups
- Under SAGE, start-ups can receive equity support up to ₹1 crore per project.
- The government’s investment share in the project cannot be more than 49% of the total equity.
Fees for Beneficiaries
- No fees for senior citizens under RVY, IPSrC, Elderline, or SACRED.
- All services, devices, and shelters are provided free of cost.
Pay Scale
- Pay for staff of funded NGOs is covered under sanctioned grants as per the project budget; the scheme does not define a fixed pay scale.
Selection Process Summary
- RVY Devices: Allocation through identification camps based on need and eligibility.
- IPSrC Homes: District committees select beneficiaries based on indigence and vulnerability.
- SACRED Jobs: Matching of registered senior citizens with suitable private sector opportunities.
- SAGE Start-ups: Evaluation of proposals by NISD and Ministry committees.
- NGO Grants: Screening and approval through E-anudaan portal.
Objectives and Pillars of AVYAY
AVYAY is structured around ten pillars ensuring holistic welfare for senior citizens:
- Financial Security
- Healthcare and Nutrition
- Shelter and Welfare
- Protection of Life and Property
- Active and Productive Ageing
- Accessibility and Age-Friendly Environments
- Awareness Generation
- Promoting the Silver Economy
- Research and Study
- Effective Project Management
Key Initiatives
Health and Shelter (IPSrC)
- Provides Senior Citizen Homes in every district, including Continuous Care Homes for chronic conditions.
- Direct benefit transfer ensures transparency and funds release is linked to attendance.
Empowering States (SAPSrC)
- States and UTs can develop their own action plans with central support and local adaptation.
Mobility and Independence (RVY)
- Free assistive devices enhance mobility, independence, and quality of life.
Livelihood and Engagement
- SACRED Portal connects seniors to employment opportunities.
- Senior citizen SHGs (AGRASR Groups) engage in productive activities for social and financial empowerment.
Innovation and Silver Economy
- Government supports start-ups creating elder-friendly solutions, including technology and services.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Mobilization
- AVYAY provides a ready list of vetted elder care projects to attract CSR funding, targeting ₹5,000 crore over five years.
Support Ecosystem
- National helpline, awareness campaigns, and caregiver training programs coordinated by NISD and Regional Resource & Training Centres.
Implementation and Monitoring
- Lead Agencies: Senior Citizens Division and National Institute of Social Defence (NISD).
- Monitoring Framework:
- Secretary-level Steering Committee for overall oversight.
- Project Management Committee conducts monthly reviews.
- Screening Committee approves new projects.
- Third-party evaluations and social audits ensure transparency and quality.
For more details on the Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana (AVYAY) and its various components, senior citizens and organizations can visit the official Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment (MoSJE) or check the E-Anudaan portal for grant applications
For senior citizens and applicants seeking more information on government support programs, including scholarships and welfare schemes, visit National Overseas Scholarship for Persons with Disabilities for detailed guidance.
