Chandigarh, June 21
During the financial year 2025-26, more than 1.11 lakh beneficiary engagements were recorded through various welfare, healthcare, awareness and social participation initiatives for the elderly, reflecting the Government’s unwavering commitment to promoting active and healthy ageing. Sharing this information, Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur said that the welfare of senior citizens remains one of the Punjab Government’s foremost priorities. She stated that through healthcare services, community engagement programmes, awareness campaigns and support mechanisms, the Government is creating an environment where every elderly citizen feels respected, protected and socially connected.
Highlighting the achievements under healthcare interventions, Dr. Kaur informed that extensive health camps conducted across Punjab facilitated 7,552 screenings for non-communicable diseases (NCDs), 2,181 cancer screenings, 6,234 orthopaedic assessments, 11,991 eye examinations, 3,395 ENT check-ups and 2,202 physiotherapy sessions. In addition, 1,520 successful cataract surgeries were performed, significantly improving the quality of life of elderly beneficiaries.
To promote active ageing and strengthen social cohesion, 230 intergenerational activities were organised across the State, engaging 11,692 senior citizens and youth participants. These initiatives helped foster stronger bonds between generations while encouraging mutual understanding and respect. Likewise, 83 productive ageing initiatives witnessed the participation of 3,266 beneficiaries, enabling senior citizens to continue contributing meaningfully to society.
The Minister further informed that awareness programmes involving police personnel, administrative officers, Panchayati Raj Institutions, youth clubs and social organisations reached 8,070 individuals, sensitising them about the rights, welfare and protection of senior citizens. Dr. Kaur also revealed that 29,186 registrations were recorded under Holistic Well-Being Camps. Additionally, 6,331 beneficiaries participated in yoga and meditation sessions, while 6,562 senior citizens took part in skill development and recreational activities. Eligible beneficiaries were also provided assistive devices such as hearing aids, walking sticks and wheelchairs under the Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana, helping them lead more independent and comfortable lives.