Chandigarh, September 19, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Punjab Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr Baljit Kaur on Saturday said that around Rs 2,147 crore has been released so far under the Old Age Pension Scheme during the current financial year 2026-27, benefiting more than 24 lakh elderly citizens across the state.
Dr Baljit Kaur said the timely release of pension assistance reflects the Punjab Government’s commitment to ensuring social security, dignity and financial support for senior citizens.
She said the scheme has emerged as an important support system for elderly citizens, helping them meet their daily needs and live with dignity and self-respect.
The Minister said the state government has made a budgetary provision of Rs 4,000 crore for the Old Age Pension Scheme during 2026-27. She said the provision reflects the government’s focus on strengthening the social security framework and protecting vulnerable sections of society.
Highlighting the vision of ‘Rangla Punjab’, Dr Baljit Kaur said the government is committed to building an inclusive society where every citizen feels secure and valued. She asserted that no eligible senior citizen would be deprived of old age pension benefits and that steps were being taken to ensure timely delivery of assistance to deserving beneficiaries.
The Minister directed all District Social Security Officers and other concerned officials to ensure prompt verification of applications, timely approval of eligible cases and smooth disbursement of pensions within the prescribed timeline.
She also instructed officials to proactively identify genuine beneficiaries and address hurdles faced by applicants to ensure that eligible elderly persons do not suffer due to procedural delays.
Appealing to eligible senior citizens and their family members, Dr Baljit Kaur urged them to complete the required formalities and approach the nearest Social Security offices to avail themselves of the scheme’s benefits.
She further appealed to Panchayati Raj Institutions, Urban Local Bodies and community organisations to help identify eligible beneficiaries and spread awareness about the scheme so that assistance reaches every deserving household.
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