The Central Government has released ₹77.98 crore in financial assistance for 755 projects supporting senior citizens across India. The funding was announced on October 28, 2026, under the Integrated Programme for Senior Citizens, a component of the Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana (AVYAY).

The initiative aims to improve access to care facilities and welfare services for older people, particularly those who need support with everyday living, healthcare and accommodation.

What Is the Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana?

The Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana is a government initiative launched in 2021 under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. It focuses on helping senior citizens live with dignity, security and independence.

The scheme brings together different interventions for older people, including institutional care, shelter, food, healthcare and recreational facilities. It also encourages cooperation between government agencies, non-governmental organisations and local communities to improve service delivery.

According to the government's latest announcement, the ₹77.98 crore grant covers 755 projects for the quarter ending September 30, 2026, in the financial year 2026–27.

Who Can Benefit From These Services?

The programme is intended to support senior citizens, with particular attention to older people who lack adequate financial resources or family support.

Depending on the facility and the applicable eligibility criteria, services may include:

• Accommodation and basic care at supported senior citizen homes.

• Food and essential daily-living assistance.

• Access to healthcare-related support.

• Recreational activities and opportunities for social engagement.

The availability of services and eligibility requirements can vary between facilities. The grant announcement does not mean that every senior citizen will automatically receive a cash payment.

How Can Families Find a Government-Supported Senior Citizen Home?

Families looking for assistance for an elderly relative can contact the District Social Welfare Office or the relevant state social justice department.

They can ask for details of government-supported senior citizen homes, available places, admission criteria, documents required and whether the facility receives assistance under AVYAY.

The district administration also plays a role in identifying eligible beneficiaries and monitoring senior citizen homes. Contacting the District Collector's or District Magistrate's office may help families find the appropriate local department.

Before arranging admission, families should confirm the facility's services, charges, medical support arrangements and admission conditions directly with the responsible authority.

Why Is This Announcement Important?

India's elderly population is growing, while urbanisation, migration and smaller households are changing the way families provide care for older relatives. Government-supported facilities can help address the needs of senior citizens who require accommodation, assistance or community-based support.

The latest funding is intended to strengthen the delivery of these services through supported projects. However, the actual availability of care depends on local facilities, capacity and eligibility requirements.

Senior citizens and their families should contact official district or state authorities to identify services available in their area and understand the application process.

The announcement was published by the Press Information Bureau on October 28, 2026, under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.