Empowering Geriatric Care: The Government of India’s PM-SPECIAL Scheme
As India witnesses a significant rise in its elderly population, the need for professional geriatric care has become increasingly critical. Recognizing this, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJ&E) has launched the PM-SPECIAL Scheme, a comprehensive initiative aimed at training geriatric caregivers to meet the growing demand for quality elder care.
Funding Pattern: Fund upto 10 Cr.
Why PM-SPECIAL?
The primary goal of the PM-SPECIAL Scheme is to bridge the gap between the supply and demand for professional geriatric caregivers. The scheme focuses on creating a dedicated cadre of well-trained caregivers who can provide specialized services to senior citizens across the country. This initiative is not only about meeting the immediate care needs of the elderly but also about preparing a workforce that is equipped to handle the diverse and dynamic challenges that come with aging.
Key Objectives:
The scheme aims to ensure a sufficient supply of trained geriatric caregivers by offering targeted training programs that cater to the holistic needs of the elderly. These programs cover various aspects of elder care, including:
Physical and Mental Well-being: Training in alternative medical practices such as Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy, as well as physiotherapy and care for chronic and terminal illnesses like Dementia, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s.
Recreation and Holistic Health: Emphasis on engaging elderly individuals in recreational activities, and providing mental health support, nutritional care, and spiritual guidance.
Crisis Management: Preparing caregivers to manage emergent and crisis-related medical conditions effectively.
Comprehensive Training Programs:
The PM-SPECIAL Scheme offers five specialized courses that focus on different aspects of geriatric care :
Geriatric Caregiver (Institutional & Home Care)
Elderly Caretaker (Non-Clinical)
Elderly Care Companion
Wellness Therapist for Elderly
These courses incorporate both theoretical and practical training, with a special emphasis on on-the-job training (OJT) to ensure that caregivers are well-prepared to handle real-world situations.
Eligibility Criteria:
The scheme is open to all Indian citizens who meet the following criteria:
Age: Candidates must be under 40 years of age.
Education: Minimum educational qualifications as specified for each job role.
Aadhar Card: A valid Aadhar card is required.
Substance-Free : Candidates should not be involved in substance abuse.
Rigorous Selection and Monitoring
The selection of Training Institutes (TIs) under the scheme follows a transparent and rigorous process managed by the Project Appraisal Committee (PAC). Both government and private institutions can apply, with preference given to those with a strong track record in geriatric care.
The scheme also emphasizes continuous monitoring and evaluation. Training Institutes are required to maintain high standards, with penalties for non-compliance, including potential blacklisting.
Digital Integration and Accessibility:
To streamline the training process, the scheme will utilize the Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH), an end-to-end IT system that facilitates smooth transitions from education to skill training and future opportunities. This platform ensures that all aspects of the training lifecycle are digitized, making it easier for candidates to access information, register, and track their progress.
Supporting the Future of Geriatric Care:
Upon completion of the training, caregivers will receive certification recognized under the National Credit Framework. The scheme also includes post-training support, such as placement assistance and continuous monitoring to ensure that trainees find suitable employment opportunities.
The PM-SPECIAL Scheme is more than just a training initiative; it’s a commitment to the well-being of India’s elderly population. By empowering a new generation of professional geriatric caregivers, the government is taking a significant step towards ensuring that every senior citizen in India receives the care, respect, and attention they deserve in their golden years.
Required Documents:
- NGO Audit Balance Sheet Of Last 3 Years.
- NGO Annual Progress Reports Of Last 3 Years.
- NGO Pan Card NGO.
- Registration Certificate & Bylaws.
- NGO Darpan Unique I’d.
- NGO Bank Account Details
- Authorized Person Aadhar & Pan Card.
- CA Certificate with UDIN.
- ITR ( Latest 3 Years ).
- Skill India TP Registration.
- LOR
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