Punjab logs over 1.11 lakh senior citizen beneficiary engagements in 2025-26: Dr. Baljit Kaur
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, June 21, 2026: The Punjab Government has recorded more than 1.11 lakh beneficiary engagements under various elderly welfare initiatives during the financial year 2025-26, underscoring its commitment to ensuring a dignified, healthy and secure life for senior citizens across the state.
Sharing the details, Punjab Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur said that under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the government has intensified efforts to promote active ageing through healthcare services, awareness campaigns, social participation programmes and support systems aimed at improving the quality of life of elderly citizens.
Dr. Baljit Kaur said the welfare of senior citizens remains a key priority for the state government, which is working to create an environment where elderly people feel respected, protected and socially connected.
Highlighting healthcare achievements, the Minister said that health camps organised across Punjab facilitated 7,552 screenings for non-communicable diseases (NCDs), 2,181 cancer screenings, 6,234 orthopaedic assessments, 11,991 eye examinations, 3,395 ENT check-ups, and 2,202 physiotherapy sessions. Additionally, 1,520 cataract surgeries were successfully conducted, helping improve vision and overall quality of life for elderly beneficiaries.
To encourage active and productive ageing, the government organised 230 intergenerational activities, bringing together 11,692 senior citizens and young participants. These programmes were designed to strengthen bonds between generations and promote mutual understanding and respect. Another 83 productive ageing initiatives engaged 3,266 beneficiaries, enabling senior citizens to remain active contributors to society.
The Minister further stated that awareness programmes involving police officials, administrative officers, Panchayati Raj Institutions, youth clubs and social organisations reached 8,070 individuals, spreading awareness about the rights, welfare and protection of senior citizens.
According to Dr. Baljit Kaur, 29,186 registrations were recorded under Holistic Well-Being Camps. Furthermore, 6,331 beneficiaries participated in yoga and meditation sessions, while 6,562 senior citizens took part in skill development and recreational activities. Eligible elderly persons were also provided assistive devices such as hearing aids, walking sticks and wheelchairs under the Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana, enabling them to lead more independent and comfortable lives.
“Our senior citizens are the foundation of our families and society. Their wisdom, experience and lifelong contributions deserve the highest respect and care. The Punjab Government is fully committed to ensuring that every elderly citizen lives with dignity, security, good health and a sense of belonging,” Dr. Baljit Kaur said.
She added that government-run Day Care Centres for senior citizens are providing emotional and physical support through facilities including indoor games, treadmills, patient beds, therapy equipment and massage machines. The government also organised special programmes on occasions such as the International Day of Older Persons, World Elder Abuse Awareness Day and the International Day of Yoga to raise awareness about elderly welfare and rights.
Appealing to the public, the Minister urged citizens to report cases of abuse, neglect, violence or exploitation of senior citizens through the Elder Helpline 14567. She stressed that ensuring the dignity and well-being of older persons is a collective responsibility and called on society to help create a caring, inclusive and secure environment for them.
Reaffirming the government's commitment, Dr. Baljit Kaur said Punjab will continue to strengthen initiatives focused on the care, protection, empowerment and holistic well-being of senior citizens across the state.