Elderline 14567 Offers Single-Window Support for Elderly Across India

Ziraat Times News Desk

New Delhi, July 15: More than 5.36 lakh citizens across the country have taken a national pledge reaffirming their commitment towards the welfare, dignity and care of senior citizens under the Centre’s “Ageing with Dignity” campaign, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment said on Tuesday.

The ministry is promoting the nationwide initiative alongside the National Helpline for Senior Citizens, Elderline 14567, as part of efforts to build an inclusive and compassionate society where elderly persons are respected, protected and empowered.

Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Dr. Virendra Kumar said that respect for senior citizens is not merely a social obligation but a collective national commitment.

“Every citizen should contribute towards building a society where senior citizens live with safety, dignity and respect,” the minister said, urging people to visit the ministry’s Ageing with Dignity portal and participate in the pledge campaign.

Elderline 14567 Provides Nationwide Support

Dedicated to the nation on October 1, 2021, Elderline 14567 is a toll-free, pan-India helpline operating across all states and Union Territories.

The helpline functions seven days a week from 8 am to 8 pm and serves as a single-window platform for addressing concerns and grievances of senior citizens.

According to the ministry, Elderline provides information on healthcare facilities, old age homes, day-care centres, caregivers and elder-friendly products. It also offers guidance on legal matters, pension-related issues, government welfare schemes, maintenance concerns and dispute resolution.

The service further extends field interventions in cases involving abuse, neglect, rescue and reunion of homeless senior citizens, besides providing emotional support to elderly persons dealing with loneliness, anxiety, family disputes and other psychosocial challenges.

Nationwide Pledge Campaign

The ministry’s “Take a Pledge” initiative encourages citizens to commit themselves towards respecting, caring for and supporting senior citizens in their families and communities.

Through the pledge, participants resolve to treat elderly persons with kindness, compassion and empathy, value their knowledge and experience, raise awareness about their rights and stand against elder abuse and mistreatment.

Officials said public response to the campaign has been encouraging, with more than 5.36 lakh citizens already participating in the nationwide movement.

Participants are also provided with a digital Certificate of Commitment in recognition of their support for senior citizens.

The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has urged citizens across the country to join the initiative and contribute towards realizing the vision of “Ageing with Dignity”, aimed at ensuring a life of dignity, security and inclusion for India’s growing elderly population.