Government reports 8.53 lakh senior citizens served by assistive-device scheme
The same programme update covers Elderline calls and geriatric-caregiver training, but provides limited outcome evidence.
The Social Justice Ministry says the Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana organised 589 camps from FY2017-18 through FY2025-26, serving 8,53,728 senior citizens and distributing 46,32,716 assistive devices.
It also reports more than 29 lakh calls to Elderline 14567 from FY2021-22 through FY2025-26 and 35,480 candidates trained in geriatric care from FY2023-24 through FY2025-26.
Why it matters
Assistive technology, accessible help and a trained care workforce are core public-service capabilities as India's older population grows.
SCULTRA point of view
Administrative scale should be paired with unique-user coverage, need-adjusted reach, device fit and durability, helpline resolution, caregiver placement, service quality and state-level access gaps.
Limitations
The release reports devices rather than unique interventions and calls rather than resolved cases. It provides no eligible-population denominator, state breakdown, repeat-user rate, caregiver employment rate or independent outcome audit.
Source: Press Information Bureau / Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, 21 September 2026.