Current Affairs

Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana and Senior Citizen Welfare Initiatives

Source:PIB ↗

Why It Matters

Important for understanding government social welfare architecture, specifically target-oriented schemes like Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana for the elderly and vulnerable sections, aligning with inclusive development goals.

Summary

Union Ministers Dr. Virendra Kumar and Shri B. L. Verma distributed free assistive devices to senior citizens under the Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana on Swachh Bharat Diwas. The event also featured an 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' tree plantation drive under the Swachhata Hi Seva campaign, highlighting the government's commitment to elderly welfare, inclusive growth, and environmental sustainability.

Key Points

  • Union Minister Dr. Virendra Kumar and MoS Shri B. L. Verma distributed free assistive devices to senior citizens on Swachh Bharat Diwas under Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana (RVY).
  • 114 senior citizens from Senior Citizens’ Homes in Delhi-NCR received 662 assistive devices (wheelchairs, hearing aids, crutches, etc.) worth over ₹10 lakh.
  • Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana (RVY) was launched on April 1, 2017, and is fully funded by the Government of India to provide free assistive devices to senior citizens suffering from age-related physical frailty.
  • A tree plantation drive under the theme “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” was organized as part of the Swachhata Hi Seva campaign to promote environmental sustainability and cleanliness.

Static Concepts Connected

Social Justice & Vulnerable Sections

What are the key funding sources and eligibility criteria under the Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana (RVY)?

  • Funding Source: Central Sector Scheme funded 100% by the Central Government using the Senior Citizens' Welfare Fund.
  • Eligibility Criteria: Senior citizens belonging to the Below Poverty Line (BPL) category or having low monthly income.
  • Targeted Conditions: Age-related infirmities like low vision, hearing impairment, loss of teeth, and locomotor disability.

Cross-Topic Patterns

  • Social Sector Schemes + Public Financial Management

    Schemes like RVY draw funds from the Senior Citizens' Welfare Fund, linking non-lapsable public welfare corpuses with direct benefit delivery through CPSEs like ALIMCO.

Expect UPSC to test Centrally Sponsored vs. Central Sector funding architecture of umbrella schemes like AVYAY and sub-schemes like RVY.

Linked PYQs · 3

Linked PYQs · 3

  • 2024PrelimsGS1

    With reference to the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-dhan (PM-SYM) Yojana, consider the following statements : 1. The entry age group for enrolment in the scheme is 21 to 40 years. 2. Age specific contribution shall be made by the beneficiary. 3. Each subscriber under the scheme shall receive a minimum pension of ₹ 3,000 per month after attaining the age of 60 years. 4. Family pension is applicable to the spouse and unmarried daughters. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • 2024PrelimsGS1

    With reference to the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY), which of the following statements is/are correct? 1. The scheme aims to open bank accounts for unbanked households. 2. There is a minimum balance requirement for accounts opened under this scheme. 3. Beneficiaries get a Rupay Debit Card with an inbuilt accident insurance cover. Select the correct answer using the code given below.

  • 2026PrelimsGS1

    Which of the following statements with respect to the Revamped Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA) is/are correct? 1. The period of its implementation is 1st April, 2021 to 31st March, 2026. 2. The key objective of the Revamped RGSA is to develop the governance capabilities of the Panchayati Raj Institutions to deliver on the Sustainable Development Goals. 3. The share of the Central funding for the Revamped RGSA is 100% for all States and Union Territories. Select the answer using the code given below: