Politics · India Bureau
Kerala to assume control of Elderline elderly helpline service
The Kerala government is preparing to take over operations of the national Elderline helpline amid ongoing uncertainty about its future. The state plans to operate the service as a round-the-clock facility for senior citizens.
LSN India ·
Kerala's administration is moving to assume direct management of Elderline, the national helpline providing support to elderly citizens, as questions persist regarding the continuity of the service at the national level.
The decision comes as operational challenges and funding uncertainties have clouded the future of the helpline, which provides counselling, information and assistance to senior citizens across the country. The Kerala government's proposal to operate the service locally would ensure uninterrupted availability to the state's elderly population.
Under the state's plan, Elderline would function as a round-the-clock service, maintaining consistent support for callers seeking help with health concerns, social isolation, financial matters and other age-related issues. The move reflects growing concerns among state authorities about gaps in care for vulnerable elderly residents.
The takeover initiative underscores the broader challenge faced by social welfare schemes in India, where questions about sustainability and resource allocation often threaten the continuation of critical services. By assuming operational control, Kerala aims to provide greater oversight and ensure the helpline's reliability for its intended beneficiaries.
Details regarding the implementation timeline and resource allocation for the state-run service are expected to be announced following formal government approval of the proposal.