The Welfare of Disabled and Senior Citizens Department was established in 1983 for all-round development of persons with disabilities by improving their socio-economic and educational standards. The main functions of the Department can be broadly categorized as: Educational, Welfare, Development, Social Security, Maintenance of Hostels/Homes and Residential Schools, Incentives and providing Technical Skills to persons with disabilities. 

The Department is also responsible for safeguarding the rights of persons with disabilities as per the provisions of Persons with Disabilities Act, 1995. The Department is coordinating its activities with the Departments concerned for providing services to disabled persons.

The Department is also implementing National Policy on Older Personsto help older persons live with dignity and peace and ensure that the older persons are not unprotected and marginalized.