The Government of Goa on August 29th 2024 issued an important initiative aimed at supporting senior citizens suffering from chronic and debilitating diseases. This new scheme provides financial assistance to registered organizations, government bodies, and institutions that operate homes for elderly individuals, particularly those dealing with conditions such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, as well as those in palliative care.
What is the Scheme About
The scheme is formally titled the “Scheme to Provide Financial Assistance to Registered Organizations for Running Homes for Senior Citizens with Chronic Diseases.” It is designed to facilitate operational support for homes dedicated to caring for senior citizens who need special attention due to their medical conditions.
Key Objectives
- Financial Support: The scheme aims to provide substantial financial assistance to organizations engaged in the welfare and rehabilitation of senior citizens. This support will cover crucial operational costs, ensuring that residents receive adequate shelter, nutritious food, and essential medical care.
- Improving Living Conditions: By focusing on operational grants, the initiative seeks to foster healthy and hygienic living conditions, thereby enhancing the overall quality of life for residents.
Who Can Apply?
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for this assistance, organizations must meet several criteria:
- Registered Entities: Only registered voluntary organizations, NGOs, government bodies, and institutions focused on senior citizen welfare can apply.
- Minimum Experience: Organizations must have been operational for at least three years under relevant laws, such as the Societies Registration Act or the Public Trust Act.
- Inmate Requirement: Applicants need to have a minimum of 20 residents at the time of application to demonstrate their capacity to provide care.
- Field Experience: Organizations should possess at least three years of experience in senior citizen welfare or running care homes.
- Financial Viability: The organization must demonstrate financial stability to manage operations, especially in cases where there may be delays in government grant disbursements.
- Reputation: Applicants must have a good standing with no criminal offenses registered against them or their office bearers.
Exemptions for Government Organizations
Certain criteria, such as the minimum experience and inmate requirement, do not apply to government organizations, making it easier for them to participate.
Financial Assistance Structure
Grant Breakdown
The scheme provides a comprehensive operational grant of ₹2,50,000 per month for eligible organizations. This funding is designed to cover various essential costs:
- Senior Doctor/Palliative Care Consultant: ₹60,000 per month
- Medical & Para Medical Team: ₹1,00,000 per month
- Administrative Expenses: ₹5,000 per month (covers utilities like electricity, water, and communication)
- Medical Expenses: ₹35,000 per month
- Food and Residential Expenses: ₹50,000 per month
Reimbursement Process
Organizations will receive the grant on a reimbursement basis. They must first incur expenses and provide supporting documentation, such as bills and receipts. Importantly, organizations are required to cover 25% of the proposed costs, with the government reimbursing the remaining 75%.
Installment Payments
The operational grant will be disbursed in two installments per year. The second installment will only be released upon the submission of a Utilization Certificate, ensuring accountability in the use of funds.
Required Documentation
Organizations wishing to apply for this financial assistance must prepare several documents:
- Completed Application Forms: Including Annexure-I, II, and III.
- Proof of Experience: Documentation demonstrating at least three years of field experience in senior citizen welfare.
- Registration Certificates: Copies of relevant registrations under applicable laws.
- Management Structure: Details of the governing body and current membership.
- Financial Statements: Audited accounts for the last three years.
- List of Inmates: Information about current residents.
- Service Details: An outline of the basic amenities and services provided.
- Licenses and Permissions: Copies of all necessary permits to operate under governmental rules.
Note: Some documentation requirements may be waived for government organizations.
Conditions for Grant Release
To ensure proper management and usage of funds, several conditions are stipulated:
- Record Keeping: Grantees must maintain separate records for the grants and submit annual extracts to the government.
- Audit Compliance: Financial records must be audited by an approved Chartered Accountant after the fiscal year ends.
- Usage Verification: A certificate confirming the proper use of the grant must be submitted to the government.
- No Redistribution: Grantees cannot allocate these funds to other entities.
- Economic Management: Organizations must adhere to financial prudence, following all government rules regarding expenditures.
How to Apply
Organizations seeking financial assistance must submit their applications to the Director of Social Welfare for the North Goa District and to the District Welfare Office in Margao for the South Goa District. Applications must include all required documentation as outlined in the guidelines.
