Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 06 August 2025
The Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment (MoSJE), Government of India, through the National Institute of Social Defence (NISD), in partnership with the Directorate of Social Welfare, Andaman & Nicobar Administration, and Alankit Assignments Limited, New Delhi, has launched the National Helpline for Senior Citizens — Elder Line 14567 — under the Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana.
Operational in the Union Territory since December 24, 2024, the helpline functions daily from 8 AM to 8 PM from the WCD Control Room building on VIP Road, Junglighat. The toll-free number 14567 provides elderly citizens with free information, guidance, emotional support, and field-level assistance aimed at ensuring their safety, dignity, and well-being.
Since its inception, the helpline has received over 500 calls, with 103 cases officially registered and 101 successfully resolved. Issues addressed range from physical and mental abuse, economic neglect, and health concerns to emotional support and general welfare.
In a key intervention, the helpline responded to complaints about long waiting times for senior citizens at the State Bank of India. Following prompt engagement with bank officials, a separate queue for elderly customers was introduced, easing their access to banking services and restoring their dignity.
The helpline team also conducted Ayushman Bharat Card enrolment drives at five locations, including Ullas Old Age Home and Chinmaya Mission, benefiting over 150 senior citizens. For bedridden individuals, coordination with the Directorate of Health Services ensured doorstep delivery of these essential healthcare cards.
Additionally, the helpline extended monthly ration support to two vulnerable elderly families identified through Chinmaya Mission, reflecting its commitment to social inclusion and financial aid.
The Directorate of Social Welfare and NHSC have thanked all partners, including the Ayushman Bharat team and Chinmaya Mission, for their cooperation in these efforts.
Elderly individuals or their families seeking assistance or grievance redressal can contact the National Helpline for Senior Citizens at 14567 — a dedicated, toll-free service empowering and protecting senior citizens across the Islands.
