Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh: In a significant move to support senior citizens, Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav formally inaugurated the state-of-the-art paid senior citizen residence ‘Sandhya Chhaya’ in Bhopal on Saturday. During the program, the CM also honored elderly residents and reviewed the facility’s modern amenities, emphasizing the state government’s commitment to senior welfare.
Financial Support to Over 54 Lakh Beneficiaries
As part of the event, CM Yadav also oversaw the direct transfer of over ₹327.15 crore into the accounts of 54.52 lakh beneficiaries under the Single Click Social Security Pension Scheme, ensuring timely support for the elderly across Madhya Pradesh.
Celebrating Senior Citizens and Community Engagement
The inauguration coincided with the State-level Sparsh Mela-2026, where Dr. Yadav distributed prizes to competition winners and interacted with students visiting the exhibition. The event was attended by Cabinet Minister Narayan Singh, other dignitaries, and local representatives, highlighting the state’s focus on community engagement and senior citizen welfare.
Sandhya Chhaya: A Modern Paid Senior Citizen Facility
Recognizing the social challenges faced by the elderly, especially those living alone due to family migration or work commitments, the Social Justice and Empowerment Department developed Sandhya Chhaya at a cost of approximately ₹24 crore. Located on Link Road No. 3 in Bhopal’s Journalist Colony, the facility spans over 5 acres and houses 56 senior citizens in 34 fully air-conditioned rooms, comprising 12 single-bed and 22 double-bed rooms.
The residence offers a wide range of amenities and healthcare services, including:
- Doctor consultations, physiotherapy center, and emergency medical support
- Private balconies, attached bathrooms, TVs, refrigerators, and hot & cold water facilities
- Library, open mess, dining hall, and specially designed pathways for seniors
- Advanced safety features including call bells, intercoms, and telephones in each room
The facility is managed by Seva Bharti Madhya Bharat for an initial period of two years, ensuring professional supervision and care.
Affordable Paid Model for Economically Capable Seniors
Sandhya Chhaya operates on a paid model, with monthly charges ranging from ₹38,000 to ₹49,990 depending on room size. While Madhya Pradesh already runs 83 free senior citizen homes housing around 2,300 elderly residents, Sandhya Chhaya provides a premium, modern alternative for financially capable senior citizens.
The state government is also planning to expand paid senior citizen residences under a PPP model, ensuring more options for elderly care while maintaining high standards of comfort, healthcare, and safety.
A Milestone in Senior Citizen Welfare
With the inauguration of Sandhya Chhaya, Madhya Pradesh sets a new benchmark in elderly care, combining modern infrastructure, healthcare, security, and recreational facilities. CM Mohan Yadav’s initiative reflects the state’s commitment to senior welfare, social security, and innovation in addressing the needs of a changing demographic.
