Punjab Elderline 14567 handles over 2.5 lakh calls, reunites 91 abandoned senior citizens with their families
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, July 3, 2026: The Punjab Government has strengthened its support system for senior citizens through Elderline 14567, a dedicated toll-free helpline that has responded to more than 2.5 lakh calls, reunited 91 abandoned elderly persons with their families, and helped resolve over 1,000 cases related to elder abuse and maintenance.
Sharing the details, Punjab Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur said the helpline has emerged as a vital support service for senior citizens by providing timely assistance, legal guidance and access to welfare schemes.
She said every senior citizen deserves dignity, care and respect, and the state government is committed to ensuring that no elderly person feels neglected or helpless.
According to the minister, Elderline 14567 offers a range of services, including counselling, legal assistance, rescue and rehabilitation of homeless senior citizens, intervention in cases of abuse, neglect and maintenance, and information on old-age pensions and other government welfare schemes.
The helpline is being operated in Punjab through a joint initiative of the Department of Social Security, Women and Child Development, HelpAge India, and the National Institute of Social Defence (NISD). It functions seven days a week from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm, with trained call officers providing guidance and support.
Dr. Baljit Kaur said cases related to abuse, neglect and maintenance are addressed through the District Tribunals constituted under the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007.
Appealing to senior citizens and their families to make full use of the service, the minister urged people to report cases of elder abuse or seek assistance by calling the toll-free Elderline 14567.
She reiterated that the Punjab Government remains committed to building an inclusive and compassionate society where every senior citizen can live with dignity, security and peace of mind.