Punjab releases Rs 352 crore for old-age pensions

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Chandigarh, April 16

The Punjab government on Thursday released more than Rs 352 crore under its old-age pension scheme for March in the 2026–27 financial year. The Minister for Social Security, Women and Child Development , Dr Baljit Kaur, said the funding aims to support elderly citizens across the state, with over 2.35 million beneficiaries receiving monthly pensions.

Sharing details, she added the government has earmarked Rs 4,000 crore for the scheme this year to ensure timely payments to all eligible recipients. “For many elderly citizens, this pension is a crucial source of income that helps meet daily needs and maintain dignity,” Baljit Kaur said, underlining the programme’s role in social welfare.

Under the scheme, men aged 65 and above and women aged 58 and above are eligible, provided their annual income does not exceed ₹60,000. Land ownership criteria have also been defined, allowing limited holdings under different categories.

The minister directed district officials to ensure the timely disbursement of funds and speed up the processing of pending applications. She also called for regular monitoring and field verification to ensure that no eligible beneficiary is left out.

The initiative, she said, reflects the government’s broader commitment to supporting senior citizens under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann.

Officials say the scheme remains a key pillar of the state’s social security framework, aimed at providing financial stability and independence to the elderly population.