State Government-Run Old Age and Infirm Homes

State Government-Run Old Age and Infirm Homes provide free residential care, nutritious meals, clothing, and basic healthcare to destitute elderly citizens aged 60 and above living in Uttarakhand. The scheme is run by the Department of Social Welfare, Government of Uttarakhand, and the state is now expanding these facilities to more districts.

In 2026-27, the scheme continues to operate and the state government has announced new old age homes in several districts along with extra services like free ambulance support and free cataract surgeries for senior citizens.

State Government-Run Old Age and Infirm Homes - Introduction

State Government-Run Old Age and Infirm Homes scheme offers a supportive home to seniors who do not have anyone to look after them. Launched by the Department of Social Welfare, Government of Uttarakhand, this scheme provides free accommodation, wholesome food, clothing, and regular medical attention in state-run residential facilities.

Earlier the scheme ran two homes in Chamoli and Bageshwar. Now the state already operates old age homes in Bageshwar, Chamoli, and Uttarkashi, and new facilities are coming up in Dehradun, Almora, and Champawat. A model modern old age home is being developed in Rudrapur with central assistance, and proposals are underway for Rudraprayag, Tehri, Pauri, and Pithoragarh. In May 2026, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami also announced a modern old age home at Kotabagh in Nainital district.

For any query related to old age homes, pensions, or other social welfare schemes, citizens can call the toll-free helpline 1800-180-4236 or contact the department on WhatsApp at 63952 21188. The official website of the department is socialwelfare.uk.gov.in.

Key Information

Benefits

When a senior citizen gets admission, the scheme covers all basic needs under one roof:

• Free Accommodation: Safe and secure living space in a government-run home.
• Nutritious Meals: Healthy and regular food is provided every day.
• Free Clothing: Basic apparel needs are taken care of.
• Basic Healthcare: Medical support services are available to keep residents in good health. The state is also arranging free cataract surgeries for senior citizens and free ambulance service at the new homes.

Geriatric care training programs are being run to prepare trained caregivers for these homes, so residents get proper attention from skilled staff.

Eligibility

Eligibility rules are simple and there is no income limit:

1. Applicant should be a permanent resident of Uttarakhand.
2. Applicant should be a man or a woman aged 60 years or above.
3. There is no specific income limit to apply for these facilities.
4. Applicant should be free from any communicable disease, which must be certified by an authorized government doctor.

Application Process

Offline Application Process

Applying for this support is a straightforward process managed by local authorities to make sure everything stays clear and fair.

STEP 1 - Prepare the application along with required documents like family register copy, Aadhaar card, and a verification report from the local Pradhan or Councillor.

STEP 2 - Submit the application to the office of the District Magistrate, the local District Social Welfare Officer, or the Superintendent of the government-run home.

STEP 3 - After submission, the District Magistrate starts an investigation. This includes reports from the Revenue Inspector and a formal recommendation from the Tehsildar.

STEP 4 - A government medical officer checks the applicant's health to confirm there is no contagious disease.

STEP 5 - After successful verification, the District Magistrate issues a formal order granting admission to the residential facility.

Documents

Keep these documents ready before applying:

1. Copy of Aadhaar Card.
2. Copy of family register.
3. Verification note from Gram Pradhan for rural areas or Ward Member for urban areas.
4. Medical certificate from a government hospital confirming non-infectious health condition.
5. Revenue Inspector's formal report and Tehsildar's recommendation.

References

Guidelines (Page 20)

Uttarakhand Social Welfare Department Official Website

Times of India: New old-age homes coming up across Uttarakhand

FAQ's

Who is eligible for the old age home facility?

Applicants who are permanent residents of Uttarakhand and are 60 years of age or older can apply.

Is there an income limit to apply?

No, there is no income ceiling for eligibility under this scheme.

Is this scheme available to both men and women?

Yes, any individual aged 60 or older, regardless of gender, can apply.

Are the services free?

Yes, all basic necessities including housing, meals, clothing, and medical care are provided free of cost.

How many homes are now operational?

Old age homes are now operational in Bageshwar, Chamoli, and Uttarkashi. New homes are being built in Dehradun, Almora, and Champawat, and a model home is coming up in Rudrapur.

What documents are required to apply?

Applicants need Aadhaar card, family register, medical certificate, revenue department reports, and a recommendation letter.

Can a person with a contagious disease apply?

No, a medical certificate from a government doctor confirming that the applicant is free from any contagious illness is required.

Where should the application be submitted?

The application can be submitted to the local District Magistrate office, the District Social Welfare Officer, or directly at the superintendent's office of the shelter home.

Is a medical check-up required?

Yes, a health certification by a government doctor is a required part of the verification.

Who verifies the application?

The verification process involves the local Revenue Inspector, the Tehsildar, and a government medical officer.

What is the helpline number for the Social Welfare Department?

The toll-free helpline number is 1800-180-4236, and the department can also be contacted on WhatsApp at 63952 21188.