Kerala Announces Senior Citizens’ Welfare Department

Kerala issued an order on 20 May 2026 to create a separate Department for Senior Citizens’ Welfare. The state also proposed the Oommen Chandy Health Insurance Scheme, which provides up to ₹25 lakh annual health insurance coverage per family.

Senior Citizens’ Welfare Department

The new department will frame and implement welfare schemes for elderly persons in Kerala. It will also coordinate existing programmes across the state and address issues linked to population ageing and social isolation among senior citizens.

Kerala State Policy for Senior Citizens 2026

The Kerala State Cabinet approved the Kerala State Policy for Senior Citizens 2026 on 20 April 2026. The policy aims at dignity, welfare, and protection for the elderly population and refers to an inclusive age-friendly society.

Elderly Population in Kerala

Kerala has the highest proportion of elderly population in India. In 2026, about 18.7% of the state’s population was above 60 years of age, compared with the national average of 11.4%, and the share is projected to exceed 22% by 2036.

Important Facts for Exams

• Kerala formed a State Elderly Commission in 2025 as a quasi-judicial forum for senior citizens’ rights and welfare.
• The 2026-27 Kerala Budget allocated ₹46,236.52 crore for senior citizens’ welfare initiatives.
• This allocation accounted for 19.07% of the total budget outlay for 2026-27.
• Kerala became the first state to present a dedicated Elderly Budget.

Health Insurance Scheme

The Oommen Chandy Health Insurance Scheme is a key promise of the UDF government in Kerala. Official launch details, registration rules, guidelines, and final eligibility criteria are still awaited.