Kerala announced the launch of the ‘Sayantanam’ programme, an initiative under the National Service Scheme (NSS) aimed at supporting elderly citizens who experience social isolation, neglect or mental health challenges. The announcement was made by Higher Education Minister Roji M John during the 2026‑27 State NSS Advisory Committee meeting in Thiruvananthapuram.
The programme will engage college students in activities that promote the welfare of senior citizens and help integrate them into the community. Students will participate in a ‘Time Bank’ model, similar to schemes used in Swiss universities, where they earn volunteer hours by providing non‑medical assistance. These hours can later be redeemed for support when the students themselves need help. Academic credit and employment opportunities will be offered to participants.
NSS volunteers will conduct seven‑day camps, interact with elderly people, study their problems and prepare reports. Initial training will be provided by experts, and the scheme will later be extended to other student groups such as the National Cadet Corps and Student Police Cadets. A dedicated Time Bank app will be developed to record volunteer hours accurately.
Minister John highlighted that launching the programme alongside the creation of a new department for senior citizens’ welfare will significantly boost elderly support in Kerala. He directed the formation of a sub‑committee to handle issues such as grace marks, and announced state funding for training NSS officers and expediting the appointment of a State NSS Officer. A State Parliament interaction programme will also be organised with the chief minister, involving selected NSS volunteers from each cell.
