Topic hub

Elderly

Elderly (Social Justice).

Syllabus: UPSC Mains GS2: welfare schemes, vulnerable sections, health, education, poverty, hunger

In the news

GS2 · Welfare schemes

Cabinet extends NSAP to 2030-31 and renames it Pradhan Mantri Samajik Sahayata Yojana

On 14 October 2026 the Union Cabinet extended the National Social Assistance Programme for five years, 2026-27 to 2030-31, with Rs. 53,428 crore. It is renamed Pradhan Mantri Samajik Sahayata Yojana. The disability pension now needs 40% benchmark disability instead of 80%, starts from birth, and pays Rs. 375 or Rs. 625 a month.

UPSC angle: Prelims: launch date, new names, outlay, 40% benchmark, Article 41. · Mains GS-II: welfare schemes for vulnerable sections; DPSPs; rights of persons with disabilities.

14 Oct 2026

GS2 · Vulnerable sections

SHATAYU dashboard builds geriatric caregiver network

The Department of Social Justice and Empowerment said on 25 June 2026 that its SHATAYU dashboard, launched on 22 May 2026, lets trained geriatric caregivers register to serve senior citizens who need care. It is managed by the National Institute of Social Defence. The Ministry said early glitches are being fixed and social media claims are misleading.

UPSC angle: Mains: ageing and care economy.

25 Jun 2026

GS2 · Welfare

National Social Assistance Programme: 3.09 crore beneficiaries

Central pension amounts are small, so states top them up. That creates large differences between states.

UPSC angle: Prelims: NSAP components. · Mains: social security for the elderly.

7 Nov 2025