Chandigarh, October 21
Punjab Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur said that ₹2,507.98 crore has been released under the Old Age Pension Scheme up to September during the financial year 2026-27, benefiting 24.07 lakh elderly citizens across the State.
Dr. Baljit Kaur said that Punjab Government is working towards creating an inclusive welfare system where every deserving citizen receives timely support. She said that the vision of ‘Rangla Punjab’ reflects the Government’s resolve to build a compassionate society where senior citizens, women, children and vulnerable sections are treated with dignity, care and respect.
The Cabinet Minister informed that a budget provision of ₹4,000 crore has been made for the Old Age Pension Scheme during the financial year 2026-27, demonstrating the Government’s sustained focus on strengthening the social security framework and ensuring support for elderly citizens.
Explaining the eligibility criteria, Dr. Baljit Kaur said that men aged 65 years and above and women aged 58 years and above, whose annual family income does not exceed ₹60,000, are eligible for pension benefits under the scheme. She reiterated that the Government is committed to ensuring that no eligible senior citizen is deprived of pension assistance and every deserving beneficiary receives support in a transparent and timely manner.
Highlighting the human impact of the scheme, the Minister said that old age pension is not merely financial assistance but a means to provide confidence, independence and dignity to elderly citizens. She said that timely pension support helps senior citizens meet their daily needs and strengthens their sense of security and self-respect.
Dr. Baljit Kaur directed all District Social Security Officers and concerned officials to ensure speedy verification of applications, timely approval of eligible cases and smooth disbursement of pension. She instructed officials to proactively identify eligible beneficiaries, assist them in completing formalities and remove procedural hurdles so that no deserving elderly person faces inconvenience in accessing benefits.
Making a heartfelt appeal, Dr. Baljit Kaur urged eligible senior citizens and their families to come forward and avail the benefits of the scheme. She also appealed to Panchayati Raj Institutions, Urban Local Bodies, village representatives, social organisations and citizens to support the Government’s efforts by identifying eligible elderly persons and helping them access social security benefits.
“Our senior citizens have devoted their lives to their families and society. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that they live with dignity, security and respect. Together, we can ensure that no deserving elderly citizen is left behind in Punjab’s journey towards a caring and inclusive ‘Rangla Punjab’,” said Dr. Baljit Kaur.
