In a significant move to support its elderly population, the Maharashtra government has introduced a landmark bill aimed at providing financial security and essential services to senior citizens. Titled the “Maharashtra State Senior Citizens Services and Facilities Bill 2025,” this initiative is designed to lighten the financial burden on residents aged 65 and above.
Below is a detailed guide on the benefits, eligibility, and application process for this new scheme.
1. Key Financial Benefits
The scheme isn’t just a pension plan; it’s a holistic support system. The primary highlights include:
- Monthly Honorarium: Eligible senior citizens will receive ₹7,000 per month as financial assistance.
- Medical Coverage: Free health services up to ₹5 lakh in government or semi-government hospitals for those who fall ill.
- Tourism Subsidy: An annual grant of up to ₹15,000 for “Maharashtra Darshan” (state tourism).
- Shelter and Food: For senior citizens who have no heirs or whose families are not supporting them, the government will provide full accommodation and food facilities.
- Support Line: A dedicated Toll-Free Helpline will be established to resolve grievances and issues faced by the elderly.
2. Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for these benefits, applicants must meet the following basic requirements:
- Age: Must be 65 years or older (men and women).
- Residency: Must be a permanent resident of Maharashtra .
- Family Status: While the honorarium is broadly proposed for seniors, specific social-welfare benefits (like housing) are targeted at those without family support.
3. Required Documents
If you or your family members are eligible, it is recommended to keep the following documents ready:
- Proof of Age: Birth certificate, School Leaving Certificate, or any government ID mentioning the date of birth
- Identity Proof: Aadhaar Card or Voter ID.
- Address Proof: Ration card, electricity bill, or domicile certificate.
- Bank Details: Bank passbook or cancelled cheque (the monthly amount will be credited directly to the account)
Where to Apply
As per the Government Gazette (2025-26) and current administrative procedures in Maharashtra, there are two primary ways to submit your application:
1. Offline Application (Most Reliable for Seniors)
Since this is a new state law, many local offices are setting up dedicated desks. You can visit:
- Tehsildar Office: This is the primary office for all social security and pension-related schemes (like the Sanjay Gandhi Niradhar Yojana or Shravan Bal).
- Collector’s Office: The District Social Welfare department within the Collector’s office handles senior citizen welfare.
- Aaple Sarkar Seva Kendra (CSC Centers): You can visit any authorized Common Service Center (CSC) or “Setu” Kendra in your village or city. They will scan your documents and apply on your behalf for a small fee.
2. Online Application
If you or a family member prefers to apply digitally, you can use the official Maharashtra state portals:
- Aaple Sarkar Portal:aaplesarkar.mahaonline.gov.in
- Process: Register as a “New User” → Login → Select “Social Justice and Special Assistance Department” → Look for the Senior Citizen Honorarium/Pension Scheme.
- MahaDBT Portal: Some direct benefit transfers are processed through.
Documents Needed
What to take with you (Checklist):
To ensure your application isn’t rejected, carry these original documents and one set of photocopies:
- Aadhaar Card: Must be linked to your mobile number.
- Age Proof: School Leaving Certificate, Birth Certificate, or Voter ID (confirming 65+ years).
- Income Certificate: Issued by the Tehsildar (usually required to be below a certain limit for full benefits).
- Bank Passbook: A copy of the front page showing your IFSC code and Account Number (must be a single account, not joint).
- Passport Photos: Carry at least 3-4 recent color photographs.
- Ration Card: BPL or Orange ration card (if applicable).