Senior Welfare Best Practices Exchange
Schemes for Senior Citizens in UTTARAKHAND
Compiled and sent by Shri Suresh Palgay, Uttarakhand AISCCON Central Council Member
Senior citizens in Uttarakhand are eligible for several welfare benefits from the State Government.
The main benefits include pension support, healthcare assistance, travel concessions, and priority public services.
1. Old Age Pension Scheme (Uttarakhand)
The Department of Social Welfare provides monthly financial assistance to eligible elderly citizens.
Main Benefits
- Monthly pension of about ₹1,500
- Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) into bank account
- Available for both men and women aged 60+ Eligibility
- Permanent resident of Uttarakhand
- Age 60 years or above
- Belonging to BPL family or low-income household
- Not receiving another government pension
2. Healthcare Benefits
Senior citizens receive special healthcare support through government hospitals and welfare programs.
Facilities include;
Ayushman Bharat & Health Insurance
Eligible elderly citizens can receive:
- Cashless treatment under Ayushman Bharat
- Health coverage up to specified limits for low-income families
- Free treatment in empanelled hospitals.
Other Facilities include;
- Priority registration and consultation in many government hospitals
- Geriatric care services in selected hospitals
- Free or subsidized medicines under state schemes
- Free ambulance initiatives launched for senior citizens in some districts
- in banks and post offices
3. Travel Concessions
Senior citizens aged 60 and above (domiciled in Uttarakhand) can travel free or at heavily discounted rates in Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC) ordinary buses. This initiative allows beneficiaries, particularly those 65 or older, to travel within and outside the state using valid ID proof.
4. Maintenance and Legal Protection
Under the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007:
- Senior citizens can legally claim maintenance from children/relatives
- Protection against neglect and abandonment
- Tribunals can order monthly maintenance support
5. Other Welfare Measures in Uttarakhand
Recent announcements by the state government include:
- Development of old-age homes in all districts
- Senior citizen welfare events and outreach programs
- Dedicated ambulance and social support initiatives