KOLKATA, India | 02 October 2026
The Homecare Association of India, HCAI, announced from Kolkata that it launched the National Homecare Census 2026 on 2 October 2026 to create a structured national baseline of homecare providers, services and geographic coverage across India. The initiative is intended to address the lack of consolidated sector-level information and support future work on quality standards, workforce planning, research and policy.
The Census is designed to document the organisations delivering homecare, the services they provide and the locations they serve. HCAI plans to use the findings to better understand service availability, regional variation and areas where further evidence may be needed.
“India’s homecare sector has expanded without a single shared picture of its size, reach and capabilities,” said Dr Arnab Paul, Founder & Convenor, Homecare Association of India. “The Census is intended to establish that baseline so future discussions on quality, workforce and policy can begin with stronger evidence.”
The initiative also forms part of HCAI’s broader examination of quality and accountability in home-based care. The association is studying the need for clearer national requirements for homecare providers and a dedicated accreditation approach that reflects the realities of care delivered in private residences.
HCAI has not announced an accreditation scheme. Any future proposal would require stakeholder consultation, technical review and alignment with applicable statutory and professional requirements. Areas identified for further consideration include patient safety, workforce competence, clinical supervision, care planning, data protection, incident reporting, complaints handling and quality measurement.
“Homecare quality has to reflect what patients, families, nurses, caregivers and providers experience in day-to-day care,” said Dr Swati Jha, Chair, Working Groups, Homecare Association of India. “A stronger evidence base can help define priorities and support practical, measurable standards for the sector.”
HCAI said the Census findings are expected to inform its future work with homecare organisations, clinicians, hospitals, researchers and other stakeholders. The association intends to publish sector-level findings after data collection and review, with conclusions clearly separated from future recommendations on regulation or accreditation.
About the Homecare Association of India
The Homecare Association of India is a national body bringing together homecare organisations, clinicians and other stakeholders working in care at home. Its work covers sector knowledge, standards, collaboration and policy related to homecare in India.
Homecare Association of India
