Social Welfare Minister Visits State Senior Citizens’ Home; Reviews Development Initiatives

Aizawl, Aug 2025: Social Welfare, Women and Child Development Minister, Pi Lalrinpuii, visited the State Senior Citizens’ Home at Ainawn Veng today. During her visit, she reviewed the ongoing initiatives under the department, listened to the concerns of the residents, and assessed their immediate needs.

The Minister expressed her gratitude that the Mizoram State Government has established such a home for senior citizens. She mentioned that while the home currently accommodates 10 residents, efforts are underway to expand its capacity to 20. Furthermore, she highlighted plans to develop a dedicated space for individuals with mental health challenges and to upgrade the Mental Rehabilitation Centre to accommodate a larger number of patients.

She also informed that a Caregiver Training Programme has been conducted, with 50 individuals already trained to assist senior citizens. These trained caregivers will address the specific needs of the elderly, particularly those without family support. To ensure comprehensive care, the government is also working on enhancing physiotherapy services and introducing mobile medical services.

Additionally, the Minister mentioned that funds have been allocated to commemorate Senior Citizens’ Day, and under the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP), citizens aged 60 and above continue to receive pensions. The government is making efforts to expand these benefits to cover a larger number of beneficiaries, including vulnerable women, children, and differently-abled individuals, through various schemes under the Social Welfare Department.

The State Senior Citizens’ Home was established on 1st January 1989 under the Social Welfare & Tribal Affairs Department. The facility was initially designed to accommodate 10 residents, but since its inception, it has provided care for 52 men and 26 women. Currently, 7 residents are living in the home, with 5 more applications under review. The facility is undergoing improvements, including the construction of a new dining area (canteen) and a recreation park for the residents’ leisure and well-being. The home employs 8 staff members under the supervision of a Welfare Officer to ensure proper care and management.

Minister Pi Lalrinpuii was accompanied by Pi Lalzarmawii, Commissioner & Secretary, Dr. Lalhriatzuali Ralte, Director of the Social Welfare Department, and other officials during the visit.