Medical Camps (Allopathy and Indian systems of Medicine) under Grant-in-Aid to Pondicherry Society for the Care of the Aged
Puducherry government runs Medical Camps under Grant-in-Aid to Pondicherry Society for the Care of the Aged (PONCARE), offering free health checkups and medicines to senior citizens across the Union Territory. These camps combine both allopathy and Indian systems of medicine, so elderly residents can access quality healthcare close to home.
For 2026, the scheme continues to serve eligible people of Puducherry. Department of Social Welfare, Government of Puducherry administers this welfare scheme through PONCARE, making sure senior citizens get the support they need without any cost.
The scheme brings healthcare directly to elderly residents through organised medical camps. Free health checkups and prescribed medicines are provided at these camps, along with health awareness talks by medical professionals. Senior citizens who are 60 years or above and have been residents of Puducherry for at least 5 years can avail these services.
Eligibility for the scheme is straightforward. Anyone who meets the age and residency requirements can participate. The camps are held at various locations across the Union Territory, making healthcare accessible to elderly residents who may face mobility or cost barriers when visiting hospitals.
Key Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Medical Camps (Allopathy and Indian systems of Medicine) under Grant-in-Aid to Pondicherry Society for the Care of the Aged (PONCARE) |
| Level | State |
| Scheme For | Individual |
| Beneficiary State | Puducherry |
| Category | Health & Wellness |
| Target Beneficiaries | Senior Citizens (60 years and above) |
| Benefit Type | In Kind |
| DBT Scheme | No |
| Nodal Department | Social Welfare Department, Puducherry |
Benefits
Eligible people get these benefits when they attend the medical camps:
- Free health checkups to monitor well-being regularly.
- Distribution of free medicines as prescribed by doctors at the camps.
- Access to health awareness talks hosted by medical professionals.
Who can apply
People can apply if they are 60 years of age or older and are native or resident of the Union Territory of Puducherry for at least 5 years. The scheme is only for residents of the UT of Puducherry.
How to apply
STEP 1 - Visit the local office of Pondicherry Society for the Care of the Aged (PONCARE) at 4th Cross - Sithankudi, 6th Cross Extension, Brindavanam, West, Puducherry - 605 013 during working hours on a working day.
STEP 2 - Request a physical application form from the designated staff member at the office.
STEP 3 - Fill in all the required information in the form and attach a passport-sized photograph along with copies of the required documents.
STEP 4 - Submit the completed and signed application form along with the documents to the Secretary, PONCARE, and collect a receipt that includes the date and time of submission for your records.
Required documents
- Aadhaar Card.
- Valid birth certificate or age proof.
- Residence-cum-Nativity Certificate issued by the appropriate authority.
- Recent passport-sized photograph.
- Bank passbook details.
References
FAQ's
What services are offered in the Medical Camps sub-scheme?
The scheme provides free health checkups, free medicines, and features awareness speeches by doctors at the camps.
What is the key focus of the Medical Camps for senior citizens?
The primary focus is on offering healthcare services, including both allopathy and Indian systems of medicine, at no cost to the attendees.
What are the requirements to participate in the Medical Camps?
Applicants must be 60 years or above and residents of the Union Territory of Puducherry for at least 5 years.
Can non-residents of Puducherry apply for the Medical Camps?
No, the scheme is exclusively for residents of the Union Territory of Puducherry.
Is there any cost associated with the health checkup and medicines?
No, both health checkups and medicines are provided free under this scheme.
Who runs the Grant-in-Aid to Pondicherry Society for the Care of the Aged scheme?
Department of Social Welfare, Government of Puducherry, administers this scheme.
How often are the Medical Camps organised?
The frequency of the camps may vary; please contact PONCARE directly for the most current schedule.
Can applicants below the age of 60 participate in the Medical Camps?
No, the scheme specifically serves individuals aged 60 years or older.
Are there additional benefits besides health checkups and medicines?
Yes, the scheme includes awareness speeches by doctors to help senior citizens understand common health issues.
How can individuals address grievances related to the scheme?
Grievances can be raised through the official Grievance Redressal Portal at https://pgportal.gov.in/.
Is there any application fee?
No, the entire application process is free. There are no charges for applying.
Are there any specific provisions for persons with disabilities under this scheme?
Currently, no specific provisions for persons with disabilities are mentioned in the scheme guidelines.