Pune/Mumbai: If you or your parents are over 60, holding a Senior Citizen Card in Maharashtra is becoming more valuable than ever. Amidst recent debates about state transport costs, the Maharashtra government has firmly reassured citizens that welfare schemes—particularly travel concessions and financial aid for the elderly—are here to stay.
Here is a complete news round-up and a practical guide on why you need this card and how to get it in 2025.
Top News Updates for Senior Citizens (2024-2025)
1. MSRTC Travel Concessions Confirmed Despite reports in February 2025 about the financial pressure on the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC), the state government has clarified that travel concessions will not be discontinued.
75+ Years: Under the Amrut Jyeshtha Nagarik scheme, seniors over 75 can travel 100% free on all MSRTC buses (including Shivneri).
65-74 Years: Seniors in this bracket continue to enjoy a 50% discount on ticket fares.
Women: All women, regardless of age, currently receive a 50% concession on MSRTC buses.
2. ₹3,000 Aid via 'Mukhyamantri Vayoshri Yojana' For seniors aged 65+ with an annual family income below ₹2 Lakhs, the state is rolling out a one-time financial assistance of ₹3,000. This amount is directly credited to bank accounts to help purchase medical aids like spectacles, hearing aids, and walking sticks.
3. New Senior-Friendly Housing Policy The Maharashtra Housing Policy 2025 has introduced incentives for developers to build "Senior Living" communities. These projects must now include essential medical facilities within a 5km radius and non-slip flooring, ensuring a safer environment for retirees.
Why Do You Need a Senior Citizen Card?
While an Aadhaar card proves your age, a dedicated Senior Citizen Certificate (Jyeshtha Nagarik Dakhla) issued by the Collector's office or Tahsildar is often required to avail specific state-level benefits smoothly without carrying multiple documents.
Key Benefits:
Railway Concessions: Discounts on train tickets (variable by gender and class).
Income Tax: Higher exemption limits for super senior citizens.
Banking: Higher interest rates (usually 0.5% extra) on Fixed Deposits.
Healthcare: Discounts at government hospitals and separate queues for OPD cases.
Telephone: Priority for MTNL/BSNL landline connections.
How to Apply for a Senior Citizen Card in Maharashtra
You can apply online via the Aaple Sarkar portal or offline at your local Setu Kendra.
Method 1: Online Application (Aaple Sarkar)
Visit the official portal:
aaplesarkar.mahaonline.gov.in Register/Login and select "Revenue Department" from the menu.
Select "Senior Citizen Certificate".
Fill in the applicant's details (Name, Address, Date of Birth).
Upload the required documents (size limits apply).
Pay the nominal service fee (approx. ₹23-₹33).
Once approved (usually within 7-15 days), you can download the digitally signed certificate.
Method 2: Offline Application
Visit your nearest Tahsil Office or Setu Suvidha Kendra.
Ask for the Senior Citizen Certificate application form.
Fill it out and attach xerox copies of your documents.
Submit the form and pay the fee at the counter.
Collect your acknowledgement receipt.
Documents Required
To ensure your application isn't rejected, have these ready:
Proof of Identity (Any one): Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, Passport, PAN Card.
Proof of Address (Any one): Ration Card, Electricity Bill, Water Bill, Property Tax Receipt.
Proof of Age (Any one): School Leaving Certificate, Birth Certificate, or a medical certificate from a Civil Surgeon (if no other proof exists).
Passport Size Photo.
Self-Declaration (Available on the portal).
The Bottom Line
With inflation rising, the concessions offered by the Maharashtra government are a significant relief. If you haven't applied for your Senior Citizen Card yet, 2025 is the time to do it to ensure you don't miss out on free travel and medical assistance.