Punjab releases Rs 2,147 crore old age pension in 2026-27, over 26 lakh elderly benefited: Dr Baljit Kaur
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, September 19, 2026: The Punjab Government has released around ₹2,147 crore under the Old Age Pension Scheme so far during the current financial year 2026-27, benefiting more than 24 lakh elderly citizens across the state, Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr Baljit Kaur said on Saturday.
Dr Kaur said the government has made a budgetary provision of ₹4,000 crore for the scheme for 2026-27, describing it as part of the state’s social security measures for senior citizens and other vulnerable sections.
She said the timely disbursement of pension assistance was aimed at helping elderly beneficiaries meet their daily needs and live with dignity and financial support.
The minister said the government was committed to ensuring that every eligible senior citizen receives the pension benefit and that applicants do not face unnecessary delays in the process.
Dr Kaur directed 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 timelines.
Officials were also asked to proactively identify eligible beneficiaries and address procedural hurdles faced by applicants, she said.
Appealing to eligible senior citizens and their family members, Dr Kaur urged them to complete the required formalities and approach the nearest Social Security office to avail themselves of the scheme.
She also called upon Panchayati Raj Institutions, Urban Local Bodies and community organisations to help identify eligible beneficiaries and create awareness about the pension scheme so that eligible households across Punjab can access the assistance.