Why in news
- The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment announced that ELDERLINE 14567 has addressed over 8.67 lakh actionable calls since its national launch in October 2021.
Key terms
AVYAY
Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana, a comprehensive central scheme for welfare and empowerment of senior citizens.
NISD
National Institute of Social Defence, an autonomous body under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
Field Intervention
On-ground rescue, shelter placement, or legal aid coordination provided to vulnerable individuals.
Senior Citizen Home
Government-supported shelter facility providing institutional care to destitute elderly individuals.
What is ELDERLINE 14567?
- A national toll-free helpline (14567) operating across 32 States and Union Territories to provide information, guidance, emotional support, and field interventions for senior citizens.
- Functions as a central component under the umbrella scheme Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana (AVYAY).
Implementation Mechanism
- Monitored nationally by the National Institute of Social Defence (NISD) in partnership with State Social Welfare Departments, police, legal aid authorities, and healthcare institutions.
- State Connect Centres coordinate localized field interventions, including rescue, rehabilitation, and grievance redressal for vulnerable elderly citizens.
Why it matters
- Addresses structural institutional gaps in old-age protection as India's elderly demographic grows.
- Provides an integrated social safety net linking digital grievance reporting with ground-level welfare administration.
Prelims facts
- ELDERLINE 14567 is implemented under the Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
Mains discussion
- Role of toll-free helplines and digital integration in social safety nets for elderly care.
Source: PIB
Same topic · past papers
UPSC has asked this before
These previous-year questions sit on the same topic. Open one to practise the earlier ask.