Strong System for Respect, Security and Rights of Senior Citizens in MP

Bhopal, May 2026 : Under leadership of Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, the State Government has given new direction and momentum to social security programmes. Schemes being implemented specifically for senior citizens are evidence of Government’s commitment towards ensuring their dignified life, security and protection of rights. In a changing social environment, where family structures are continuously evolving, care of senior citizens and protection of their rights have emerged as important concerns. In this direction, Madhya Pradesh Government is making multidimensional efforts.

To ensure senior citizens receive their rightful entitlements, effective implementation of Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007 has been ensured. This Act gives senior citizens the right to receive maintenance from their children or relatives if they are unable to maintain themselves.

Under provisions of this Act, every Sub-Divisional Officer (Revenue) office in State has been designated as Maintenance Tribunal, while District Magistrate Court has been declared Appellate Tribunal. This arrangement is enabling senior citizens to receive prompt and accessible justice. In addition, district officers of Social Justice Department have been designated as Maintenance Officers to effectively administer this system.

Under provisions of the Act, neglect or abandonment of senior citizens has been declared a punishable offence, thereby strengthening sense of responsibility towards them in society. Provision for determining a monthly maintenance amount also provides financial security to senior citizens.

Institutional Arrangements: Shelter and Care

A robust system of shelter and care has been established for senior citizens across State. Through various institutions and local bodies operating old-age homes, needy senior citizens are being provided shelter, food, healthcare services and recreational facilities.

In this series of initiatives, “Sandhya Chhaya” Senior Citizen Residence developed in Bhopal is an important step. This modern and fully equipped residential complex provides senior citizens with a safe, comfortable and dignified life. Air-conditioned rooms, a library, physiotherapy, medical facilities and recreational amenities are available here. This initiative demonstrates that State Government is committed not only to providing shelter but also to ensuring a high quality of life for senior citizens.

Schemes and Programmes: Towards Holistic Development

Through Government of India’s Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana, various activities for welfare of senior citizens are also being implemented in State. Under this scheme, special attention is being given to healthcare, nutrition, livelihood, social participation and awareness.

To connect senior citizens with mainstream society, inter-generational dialogue, group activities and skill development programmes are being organised. These efforts not only help maintain their active participation but also enable younger generations to benefit from their experience.

Helpline And Support System: Always By Their Side

Initiatives such as Elder Line 14567 are proving highly important in assisting senior citizens. This toll-free helpline provides information, counselling, emotional support and assistance during emergencies.

Through this helpline, senior citizens can share their concerns and receive prompt solutions. This service not only ensures their safety but also instils confidence that Government stands with them at all times.

Respect and Social Recognition

Various programmes are organised in State to promote respect for senior citizens. On the occasion of International Day of Older Persons, senior citizens aged 100 years or above are honoured through programmes such as “Shatayu Samman”.

This initiative helps create an atmosphere of respect and inspiration towards senior citizens in society.

Innovation and Reforms

The State Government is periodically amending rules to make arrangements more effective. For example, provision to deduct maintenance allowance from salary of government employees who neglect their parents and deposit it directly into parents’ bank accounts is an important and effective measure.

This arrangement not only protects rights of senior citizens but also promotes responsibility and sensitivity within families.

Under leadership of Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, social security programmes being implemented for senior citizens in Madhya Pradesh have emerged as a comprehensive, sensitive and effective system. Legal protection, institutional arrangements, welfare schemes, helpline services and recognition programmes have collectively made lives of senior citizens more secure, dignified and self-reliant.

Efforts being made in Madhya Pradesh for protection of rights and welfare of senior citizens are presenting an example not only for State but for entire country. In coming years, these initiatives are expected to bring even more positive changes in lives of senior citizens, representing an important step towards building a sensitive and inclusive society.