Punjab released Rs 2,507.98 crore under Old Age Pension scheme, 24.07 lakh senior citizens benefit
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, September 21, 2026: The Punjab Government has released ₹2,507.98 crore under the Old Age Pension Scheme during the financial year 2026-27 up to September, benefiting 24.07 lakh senior citizens across the state, Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur said.
The minister said a budget provision of ₹4,000 crore has been made for the scheme for the current financial year, reflecting the state government’s focus on strengthening social security and ensuring financial support for elderly citizens.
She said that under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the government is working to ensure that eligible senior citizens receive pension assistance in a timely and transparent manner.
Explaining the eligibility criteria, Dr. Baljit Kaur said men aged 65 years and above and women aged 58 years and above are eligible for pension benefits, provided their annual family income does not exceed ₹60,000.
Describing the pension as more than financial assistance, the minister said it helps elderly citizens meet their daily needs while promoting independence, security and dignity.
She directed District Social Security Officers and other concerned officials to expedite the verification of applications, approve eligible cases promptly and ensure the smooth disbursement of pensions.
Officials have also been instructed to identify eligible senior citizens proactively, help them complete the necessary formalities and remove procedural hurdles that may prevent them from accessing the scheme’s benefits.
Dr. Baljit Kaur appealed to eligible senior citizens and their families to avail themselves of the scheme. She also urged Panchayati Raj Institutions, urban local bodies, village representatives, social organisations and citizens to help identify deserving elderly people and facilitate their access to pension benefits.
Emphasising the collective responsibility of society towards senior citizens, the minister said the government aims to ensure that no eligible elderly person is left out of the social security framework as Punjab works towards its vision of a caring and inclusive ‘Rangla Punjab’.