“Vayoshreshtha Samman presented by the The President of India Shri Ram NathKovind to the eminent senior citizens and institutions in recognition of their services towards the cause of the elderly persons to mark ‘International Day of older Persons’ at a function organized by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
Instituted by the Ministry of Social Justice &Empowerment,VayoshreshthaSamman is a Scheme of awards and gradually upgraded to the status of National Awards, for institutions involved in rendering distinguished service for the cause of elderly persons especially indigent senior citizens and to eminent citizens in recognition of their service/achievements.
On the International Day of Older Persons (IDOP) which is celebrated every year on 1st October these awards are presented as part of the celebration.
As per the Scheme, nominations are invited from Ministries/Departments of the Government of India and their autonomous organisations; State Governments/UT Administrations; past recipients of Padma Award; VayoshreshthaSamman and other National Awards in both individual and institutional categories; Members of the National Council for Senior Citizens; Renowned Apex Chambers like FICCI, CII, ASSOCHAM, NASSCOM, PHDCCI etc.
The Government’s concern for senior citizens and its commitment towards senior citizens with the aim of strengthening their legitimate place in the society in showcased by this scheme. It will also provide an opportunity to the younger generations to understand the contribution of the elderly in building the society and the nation.
- Every year VayoshresthaSammans shall be conferred in thirteen categories.
- Every year on the 1st September the recipients of the Sammans shall be declared and will be conferred on the 1st October on the occasion of International Day of Older Persons (IDOP).
- The Award in each category shall carry a Citation, a Plaque and also cash award in some of the categories as decided from time to time.
- This award is dedicated to distinguished or outstanding Institutions or organisations and individuals from any part of the country.
Best Institution for Research in the field of Ageing : Dedicated to the institutions with a record of outstanding work in research and dissemination of knowledge in the field of ageing.
Best Institution for providing Services to Senior Citizens and Awareness Generation : Dedicated to the  Institutions with a record of providing services to the elderly, especially impecunious  senior citizens.
Best District Panchayat in providing services and facilities to Senior Citizens : Presented to the district Panchayats, for their outstanding work towards senior citizens
Best Urban Local Body in providing services and facilities to Senior Citizens : Presented to the municipal bodies, for their outstanding work towards senior citizens
Best State in implementing the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007, and providing services and facilities to Senior Citizens : Presented to the State or Union Territories which has taken a lead in Implementing various provisions of the Act and has highest percentage of settlement of claims of maintenance or best security programme for elderly.
Best Private Sector Organisation In promoting the well being and welfare of senior citizens : Presented to the Corporate Houses, addressing the problems of elderly either by providing them gainful employment, or utilising their skills and experience to the benefit of the society or creating Infrastructure in geriatric medical care or any other similar step for the benefit of senior citizens as a community. The activities taken for benefit of senior citizens should be away from the mainline business of the organisation.
Best Public Sector Organisation in promoting the well being and welfare of senior citizens : Presented to the Public Sector Undertaking, service to the community through activities under corporate social responsibility and also through programmes for retired employees
Centenarian : Presented to the senior citizens  who are above ninety years and are still physically active, independent and contributing towards society
Iconic Mother : Dedicated to the  women senior citizens who faced the great odds, brought up their children and supported them in being high achievers in field of their choice.
Lifetime Achievement : Presented to the Senior citizens aged above seventy years, who have worked in the field of aging and made significant contribution in the respective field.
Creative Art : Dedicated to the winners of National/ international acclaim for their contribution to literature, theatre, drama, music, dance, painting, sculpture, photography, etc. and who continue to be active in their field well Into their old age
Sports and Adventure (one each for Male and Female) : Presented to the Senior citizens who have won international acclaim and continuing to contribute in the field of sports and adventure
Courage & Bravery (one each for Male and Female) : Presented to the Senior citizens who have displayed extraordinary courage in the face of grave danger.
