Chandigarh, August 24, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Punjab Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr Baljit Kaur said the state government is strengthening its welfare measures for senior citizens and working to ensure that elderly people live with dignity, security and a sense of belonging.
Sharing details of government-run facilities, Dr Baljit Kaur said old age homes are being operated across Punjab to provide safe shelter, care and support to senior citizens who require residential assistance.
She said the 72-bed Baba Phool Government Old Age Home at Khattar Patti on Dhilwan Road in Tapa, Barnala district, was constructed at a cost of ₹8.21 crore and inaugurated on April 9, 2025.
According to the minister, 16 senior citizens are currently residing at the facility and are receiving essential services free of cost. These include dormitory accommodation, nutritious meals, clothing and healthcare, besides access to a library, gardening facilities, yoga sessions twice a week and indoor recreational activities.
Dr Baljit Kaur said the government’s approach was not limited to providing shelter but also focused on ensuring that senior citizens feel valued, cared for and socially connected. She said elderly welfare initiatives were being continuously strengthened to provide dignity, compassion and security during the later years of life.
Appealing to senior citizens in need of care and support, the minister said destitute, abandoned and other eligible elderly persons requiring residential care could approach the District Social Security Officer of their respective district for guidance on admission to government-run old age homes. Admission would be subject to prescribed eligibility criteria and availability of accommodation.
She also urged citizens, Panchayati Raj Institutions, Urban Local Bodies, social organisations and community members to help identify and support elderly persons requiring assistance, so that no senior citizen is left without care, shelter, protection or dignity.
Dr Baljit Kaur reiterated that the Punjab Government would continue to expand and strengthen social security initiatives aimed at protecting the welfare and dignity of senior citizens.
FOLLOW NOW
