Chhattisgarh’s Model of Commitment to the Respect, Safety and Welfare of Senior Citizens

Raipur, Nov 2025 : Elderly Citizens – Pillars of Culture, Experience and Values

At the heart of Indian culture are our elders — their experiences guide society, and their memories form the foundation of our civilization. However, with changing social dynamics, family structures and community spaces have started shrinking. In such circumstances, ensuring the safety, health, social participation and a dignified life for senior citizens becomes a key responsibility of the government. It is this sentiment that shapes the sensitive policies and strong implementation of the Chhattisgarh government.

Governance Rooted in Respect for Elders

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has placed the dignity of senior citizens at the core of governance. He firmly believes that “serving one’s parents is equivalent to worshipping God.” With this approach, the state is expanding initiatives that enhance the quality of life for the elderly.

On the occasion of International Day of Older Persons on October 1, the Chief Minister announced the establishment of modern old-age homes in Raipur, Bilaspur, Korba and Durg under the PPP model, and the opening of an equipment service center in Raipur for destitute elderly persons and persons with disabilities. Along with this, the expansion of social-spiritual centers like “Siyan Gudi” is providing mental, cultural and spiritual support to seniors.

Strengthening Ground-Level Welfare

State Social Welfare Minister Lakshmi Rajwade has taken several important steps to ensure that elder-focused programmes reach the grassroots. She says, “Sensitive governance means delivering service and security to every elderly person.”

Currently, 35 old-age homes are functioning in the state, providing food, accommodation, health care, counselling and recreation to around 1,049 senior citizens. For elderly citizens suffering from serious illnesses or living in helpless conditions, palliative care homes are being operated in six districts—Raipur, Durg, Kabirdham, Raigarh, Balod and Bemetara—where 128 seniors are receiving free treatment, medicines and regular medical care.

The helpline service set up to address the problems of senior citizens has already resolved more than 270,000 cases. This service not only increases accessibility but also instils confidence and a sense of security among elders.

Ensuring Social and Legal Protection

The Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007 is being strictly implemented in the state to protect the rights of the elderly. Maintenance tribunals at the subdivision level and appellate tribunals at the district level have enabled quick justice in matters related to property, safety and financial support. Senior citizens living below the poverty line receive monthly pension assistance — ₹500 per month for those aged 60 to 79 and ₹650 per month for those aged 80 and above. More than 1.4 million elders are currently benefiting from this scheme, forming a crucial foundation of economic security in their lives.

Health, Assistance and Dignified Living

State government schemes continue to strengthen the right to quality healthcare. Under Ayushman Bharat and the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Health Assistance Scheme, more than 800,000 senior citizens have received free treatment. Additionally, over 50,000 elderly citizens have been provided with assistive devices such as wheelchairs, hearing aids, walking sticks and spectacles under the Senior Citizens Assistive Device Distribution Scheme.

Spiritual Well-being and Social Respect

Spiritual fulfilment is vital for the mental well-being of senior citizens. Through the Chief Minister’s Pilgrimage Scheme and Shri Ramlala Darshan Yojana, more than 250,000 elders have benefited from 278 pilgrimage trips. During these journeys, food, accommodation and medical facilities are provided. Every year, on October 1, Elderly Day is celebrated at the state and district levels to promote respect, compassion and cooperation towards senior citizens.

Respecting elders is not just a social value — it is a responsibility.

A Model of Sensitive and Effective Governance

Under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai and Social Welfare Minister Lakshmi Rajwade, Chhattisgarh has demonstrated that sensitive governance, efficient implementation and a humane outlook can together bring real, meaningful change to the lives of senior citizens.