The Senior Citizen Seva Card: What It Offers and Why It Matters
A complete guide to the government welfare card every senior citizen in India is eligible for — and the benefits most families don't know about.
A Senior Citizen Card is being issued by State Governments to help senior citizens access several welfare schemes. All senior citizens in India over the age of 60 are eligible for the Senior Citizen Seva Card. The card can be applied for online, or by visiting the local Seva Kendra office and filling in the form. It typically costs around ₹10 and is normally processed within 15 days.
Eligibility for the Senior Citizen Card
To be eligible for the Senior Citizen Card, a person must be an Indian resident aged 60 or above, with valid proof of identity, address, and age.
Benefits of the Senior Citizen Card
- Better interest rates with bank deposits or other financial institutions
- Discount on state government bus tickets and government airline tickets
- Discount at private hospitals and priority medical treatment at government hospitals
- Priority installation of phone connections by MTNL or BSNL
- Income tax exemption of up to ₹3,00,000 every financial year
- Priority hearing dates at Indian High Courts
Many families are unaware of these entitlements. Devadiya Foundation volunteers help senior citizens in our communities navigate the application process at no cost.
How to Apply Online
Official portal: www.india.gov.in → Search for "Senior Citizen Identity Card"
- Log in to the official national portal of India at india.gov.in
- Choose the "Senior Citizen Identity Card" option
- Click on "Application Form for Issue of Identity Card to Senior Citizen"
- Download and fill in the application form
- Create a login with your phone number and enter personal details
- Upload scanned documents as proof of identity, age, and address
- Pay the processing fee (approximately ₹10)
- Receive an application reference number to track your status
- Download and print the card once it is processed, or collect it at your nearest Seva Kendra
Alternatively, the duly filled form can be submitted at local Seva Kendras such as e-Sevai centres, passport offices, or Aadhar offices. After the processing fee is paid, you will receive an acknowledgment receipt which can be used to track the status of your application. The physical card can either be picked up at the Seva Kendra or mailed to your address.
We Help Seniors Navigate Their Rights
Our volunteers assist senior citizens with welfare card applications, health camp registrations, and more — completely free of charge.