The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment announced that ELDERLINE 14567, the national toll-free helpline for senior citizens, has handled over 29 lakh calls since its launch in October 2021. The helpline operates across 32 states and union territories and is part of the Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana (AVYAY), a government scheme to support elderly citizens.
Key facts
- Helpline number: 14567 (toll-free)
- Launch date: 1 October 2021
- Total calls received: 29 lakh (since FY 2021 to September 2026)
- Actionable calls handled: 8.67 lakh
- Operational coverage: 32 states and union territories
- Monitoring agency: National Institute of Social Defence (NISD)
- Parent scheme: Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana (AVYAY)
What ELDERLINE offers
ELDERLINE provides senior citizens with information, guidance, emotional support and assistance through a two-tier system. The helpline receives calls and connects callers with appropriate services based on their specific needs. State Connect Centres then work on the ground to deliver actual support.
The services available include providing information to senior citizens about government schemes and entitlements, offering guidance on how to access these benefits, and providing emotional support and counselling to isolated or distressed elderly persons. When needed, the centres coordinate field interventions to address problems directly in the community.
How it connects with government services
ELDERLINE works as a bridge between elderly citizens and existing government and social services. When a senior citizen calls with a problem, the helpline staff assess the nature of the grievance and identify which agency or service can help. The helpline then coordinates with State Social Welfare Departments, police, healthcare institutions, legal aid services, senior citizen homes and other local agencies.
For example, if a senior citizen calls with a health concern, ELDERLINE can connect them with healthcare providers. If someone reports neglect or abuse, the helpline can coordinate with police and social welfare departments for intervention. The actual implementation and follow-up happens at the field level through State Connect Centres and state governments.
Who operates and monitors ELDERLINE
The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment implements ELDERLINE through formal agreements with participating state and union territory governments and service providers. The National Institute of Social Defence monitors the performance of the helpline by tracking calls, services delivered, grievances and field interventions. The ministry periodically reviews digital service delivery, awareness activities, outreach efforts and accessibility to ensure that senior citizens, including those in remote areas, can access support.
What this means for you
If you are a senior citizen or have elderly relatives or parents, ELDERLINE 14567 is a free resource available across most of India. You can call the helpline at any time to seek information about benefits you are entitled to, ask for guidance on government schemes, or report problems like neglect, abuse, health issues, financial difficulties or legal matters. The helpline does not provide direct cash assistance but connects you with the right organisations that can help solve your problem.
The helpline is particularly useful for elderly persons living alone, those with limited mobility, or those unaware of available support systems. The emphasis on emotional support and counselling also means the helpline serves as a listening ear for isolated seniors.
Limitations to note
ELDERLINE coordinates services and referrals but does not provide direct financial assistance to callers. The helpline is a referral and support service, not a cash transfer programme. The actual delivery of services depends on the capacity and willingness of state governments and partner organisations to act on the referrals made by ELDERLINE.