Old Age Home (Sahara) is a social welfare scheme of the Bihar government that provides shelter, food, clothing, and medical care to destitute and poor elderly citizens.
In July 2026, the Bihar cabinet approved merging this scheme into the new Mukhyamantri Vriddhjan Aashray Sthal Yojana, also known as the Chief Minister Elderly Shelter Scheme. This new scheme is now run through the Social Welfare Department of Bihar.
Mukhyamantri Vriddhjan Aashray Sthal Yojana - Introduction
Mukhyamantri Vriddhjan Aashray Sthal Yojana works to improve the quality of life for elderly citizens of Bihar. Through this scheme, the government focuses on the construction and operation of dedicated shelter homes so that those in need receive proper care and dignity in their later years.
Earlier, this work was handled under the name Old Age Home (Sahara). After the cabinet decision of 15 July 2026, the old Sahara scheme has been merged into the new Mukhyamantri Vriddhjan Aashray Sthal Yojana, which is now run through the Social Welfare Department.
The new scheme carries a non-recurring cost of around ₹42.97 lakh per unit every five years and a recurring cost of about ₹63.38 lakh every year. This helps the state build and run these shelter homes properly.
Key Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Mukhyamantri Vriddhjan Aashray Sthal Yojana (Old Age Home Sahara) |
| Level | State |
| Scheme For | Individual |
| Beneficiary State | Bihar |
| Category | Social Welfare and Empowerment |
| Benefit Type | In Kind |
| Nodal Department | Social Welfare Department |
Benefits
The scheme gives a complete support package to eligible elderly citizens. The main benefits are listed below.
- Development and operation of secure old age homes under the name Sahara.
- Provision of essential support including housing, daily clothing, and nutritious meals.
- Availability of medical facilities to make sure the health and well-being of the elderly is looked after.
- Overall improvement in the living conditions and social security for destitute senior citizens.
Eligibility
To get the benefit of this scheme, an applicant should meet one of the following conditions.
- Applicant should belong to the Below Poverty Line (BPL) category.
- Or, the annual family income should be below ₹60,000.
- Applicant should be a resident of Bihar and should be 60 years of age or above.
Application Process
Applicants can follow these steps to apply for the scheme.
STEP 1 - Prepare a formal application on a plain paper requesting to join the Old Age Home (Sahara).
STEP 2 - Submit the application to the local District Social Security Cell.
STEP 3 - The proposal is reviewed and approved by a committee chaired by the District Magistrate.
Documents
Applicants should keep the following documents ready while applying.
- Valid proof of age.
- Documentary proof of annual income.
- BPL Ration Card, if applicable.
- Two recent passport-size photographs.
References
FAQ's
What is Old Age Home (Sahara)?
This is a state-run social welfare scheme for elderly citizens in Bihar that provides rehabilitation services, including shelter, food, and clothing, for those who are destitute or economically disadvantaged.
What is the new update about this scheme?
In July 2026, the Bihar cabinet merged the Old Age Home (Sahara) scheme into the new Mukhyamantri Vriddhjan Aashray Sthal Yojana, also known as the Chief Minister Elderly Shelter Scheme, which is now run through the Social Welfare Department.
What specific benefits can I expect?
The scheme provides a complete support package including secure housing, meals, clothing, and access to medical care to ensure a better quality of life.
Who is eligible to apply?
Any resident of Bihar who is a BPL cardholder or has an annual income of less than ₹60,000 and is 60 years of age or above can apply.
How do I submit my application?
Applicants should submit an application on plain paper to the District Social Security Cell in their district.
Are there medical facilities available?
Yes, the scheme includes medical facilities to make sure that the health needs of the residents are properly addressed.
What is the required age to join?
Applicants should be 60 years of age or above to be eligible for admission into these homes.
Is there an income limit for beneficiaries?
Yes, the maximum annual income should be below ₹60,000.