Launch of the Initiative
Anbu Solai Senior Care Initiative: The Anbu Solai programme marks a major step in Tamil Nadu’s social care framework. The initiative was launched by the Chief Minister on November 10, 2025, at Trichy, signalling a focused effort to improve senior citizen welfare. The model aims to create safe, accessible, and activity-rich spaces for the elderly.
Static GK fact: The Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007 forms the legal foundation for senior citizen welfare in India.
Purpose of Anbu Solai
The main objective of Anbu Solai is to support the well-being of the elderly, especially those from working-class households. Many older persons spend most of the day alone when family members are away at work. These centres offer structured daytime support, reducing loneliness and fostering community participation.
Static GK Tip: India’s senior citizen population is projected to cross 194 million by 2031, creating increasing demand for support systems.
Statewide Coverage
A total of 25 centres have been opened across Tamil Nadu under the Department of Social Welfare and Women Empowerment. This wide coverage ensures that multiple districts receive access to the facilities. The government plans for expansion based on public response and utilisation levels.
Static GK fact: Tamil Nadu ranks among the top states in India in terms of elderly population percentage, according to Census estimates.
Facilities Provided
Anbu Solai offers a wide range of services that support both physical and mental well-being. Facilities such as indoor games, physiotherapy, handicraft training, tiffin, and lunch ensure that each centre functions as a multi-activity hub. These services help senior citizens stay active, healthy, and socially connected.
The physiotherapy unit is especially important, as age-related mobility issues are common among the elderly. Handicraft training encourages skill use and creativity, helping participants stay engaged throughout the day.
Geographical Distribution
In the first phase, two centres each were established in 10 municipal corporations across the state. Additionally, three centres were opened in Greater Chennai, located at Sholinganallur, Tondiarpet, and Virugambakkam. This phased distribution ensures balanced access in both metropolitan and regional areas.
Static GK Tip: Greater Chennai Corporation is India’s oldest municipal corporation, founded in 1688.
Social Impact
By providing structured daytime care, Anbu Solai reduces the burden on working families who struggle to balance employment and caregiving responsibilities. It promotes dignity, independence, and social interaction for the elderly population. The programme also encourages inter-generational harmony by establishing dedicated community spaces.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Anbu Solai Senior Care Initiative:
| Topic | Detail |
| Launch date | November 10, 2025 |
| Location of launch | Trichy |
| Total centres | 25 |
| Department | Department of Social Welfare and Women Empowerment |
| Key beneficiaries | Senior citizens from working-class families |
| Key facilities | Indoor games, physiotherapy, handicraft training, tiffin, lunch |
| Phase 1 distribution | Two centres in 10 municipal corporations |
| Chennai centres | Sholinganallur, Tondiarpet, Virugambakkam |
| Aim | Enhancing well-being and social engagement of elderly |
| State | Tamil Nadu |
