Old Age Homes - Tamil Nadu is a state scheme run by the Social Welfare and Women Empowerment Department to help destitute senior citizens aged 60 and above. It gives food, shelter, medical care and recreation through eligible non-governmental organisations, and the state government continues to support these homes in 2026.
The scheme works by giving a maintenance grant to voluntary organisations that run old age homes. These homes take care of elders who are homeless and abandoned by their families, so they get a safe place to stay, regular meals, clothing, health care and recreational activities.
Old Age Homes - Tamil Nadu - Introduction
Old Age Homes - Tamil Nadu is a compassionate effort by the Social Welfare and Women Empowerment Department to raise the living standards of elderly people across the state. The scheme makes sure that destitute senior citizens aged 60 years and above get steady access to food, safe shelter, medical support and recreation.
By working with NGOs, the government provides the resources needed to create a dignified environment for elders. At present the state government gives grants to 21 non-governmental organisations in a 5:1 ratio to run these homes, and each home can accommodate 40 elders. A feeding grant of ₹1,200 per elder per month is also provided.
Key Information
| Scheme Name | Old Age Homes - Tamil Nadu |
|---|---|
| Level | State |
| Scheme For | Infra |
| Beneficiary State | Tamil Nadu |
| Category | Social welfare & Empowerment, Health & Wellness, Housing & Shelter, Women and Child |
| Target Beneficiaries | NGO |
| Sub Category | Financial assistance, Shelter, Rehabilitation, Food Security, Medicine |
| Benefit Type | Composite |
| DBT Scheme | No |
| Nodal Department | Department of Social Welfare and Women Empowerment |
Benefits
This scheme helps NGOs give a better life to senior citizens with the following financial support:
| Funding Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Grant-in-aid per home (for 40 inmates) | ₹5,60,000 |
| Institutional contribution required | ₹1,12,000 |
| Feeding grant per elder per month | ₹1,200 |
For senior citizens, the scheme makes sure of access to comprehensive services such as nutritious food, secure shelter, regular medical checkups, and recreational programs to keep them active and engaged.
Eligibility
To take part, an organisation should meet the following criteria:
An NGO should be officially registered under the Societies Act, Trust Act, or Company Act. It should currently operate as an Old Age Home for senior citizens. It should also hold a valid registration under the Tamil Nadu Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Rules, 2009.
Application Process
Applications can be made both online and offline. The steps are given below.
STEP 1 - Gather all required self-attested documents before starting the application. These include the NGO registration certificate and the registration under the Tamil Nadu Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Rules, 2009.
STEP 2 - For the online route, visit the nearest Common Service Center (CSC) and undergo the required biometric verification.
STEP 3 - Complete the digital form with the organisation's details, upload the documents, and collect the submission receipt for future reference.
STEP 4 - For the offline route, visit the local District Social Welfare Office during business hours and ask the staff for the official application format.
STEP 5 - Fill in all details carefully, attach the required documents, and submit the completed form to the District Social Welfare Officer. Always ask for a formal receipt with a submission ID to track the application status.
Documents
Make sure the following documents are ready for the application:
- Valid NGO Registration Certificate under the Societies Act, Trust Act, or Company Act.
- Registration Certificate under the Tamil Nadu Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Rules, 2009.
- Additional supporting documents as requested by the department.
References
More information can be found in these official sources:
- Official List of Old Age Homes (State Grant)
- Old Age Home Registration
- Senior Citizen Homes Registration Portal
FAQ's
What is the primary goal of the Old Age Homes - Tamil Nadu scheme?
The goal is to support destitute senior citizens aged 60 and above by providing food, shelter and medical care through authorised NGOs.
What specific services do the beneficiaries receive?
Beneficiaries get daily meals, a safe place to stay, medical attention and various recreational activities.
How many homes receive support?
At present the scheme provides support to 21 identified Old Age Homes run by non-governmental organisations.
Where can I get the list of supported homes?
The official list is available on the Social Welfare Department page, or contact the District Social Welfare Office.
Who should I reach out to for questions?
Contact the District Social Welfare Officer for any queries about the scheme.
How should I report a grievance?
Report any issues to the District Collector or the District Social Welfare Officer at the district level.
Are there specific registration requirements for NGOs?
Yes, NGOs must be registered under the Societies, Trust or Company Acts, and must hold a registration under the Tamil Nadu Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Rules, 2009.
What is the financial aid package?
The government provides a grant-in-aid of ₹5,60,000 per year for a home with 40 inmates, along with a feeding grant of ₹1,200 per elder per month.
What is the institution's responsibility regarding funding?
The running institution is required to contribute ₹1,12,000 annually under the 5:1 ratio.
What is the senior citizen helpline number?
The Senior Citizen Helpline number is 14567, launched by the Union Government, and works from 8am to 8pm on all days.
What is the contact address for official inquiries?
Contact the Director of Social Welfare, 2nd Floor, Panagal Maaligai, Saidapet, Chennai - 600 015. You may also call 044-24351885.