Punjab Government Releases ₹1,583 Crore to Strengthen Social Security for Elderly and Vulnerable Citizens

Annual Social Security Budget of ₹6,131.91 Crore Ensures Financial Security for Approximately 36 Lakh Beneficiaries

5 Dariya News

Chandigarh 29-Jun-2026

For thousands of elderly citizens and vulnerable families across Punjab, timely social security assistance is not merely financial support—it is a source of dignity, security and hope. Reaffirming the Punjab Government's unwavering commitment to protecting the most vulnerable sections of society, Punjab Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur announced that more than ₹1,583 crore has been released so far during the financial year 2026–27 under various social security and welfare schemes.

The Minister said that the timely release of funds will ensure uninterrupted financial assistance to elderly persons, widows, destitute women, orphan and dependent children, and persons with disabilities across the State, reinforcing the Government's commitment to protecting its most vulnerable citizens. She added that under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government has further strengthened the social security framework by ensuring that welfare benefits reach every eligible beneficiary with transparency, efficiency and dignity.

Dr. Baljit Kaur said, “For our Government, social security is not merely a budgetary provision; it is a solemn commitment to safeguard the dignity and well-being of those who need the State's support the most.” She informed that the Punjab Government has earmarked a record ₹6,131.91 crore for social security and welfare schemes during the current financial year, ensuring regular financial assistance to approximately 36 lakh beneficiaries across the State.

Sharing details of the released funds, the Minister said that more than ₹1,048 crore has been directly transferred to beneficiaries under the Old Age Pension Scheme. In addition, over ₹535 crore has been released under various social security schemes benefiting widows, destitute women, orphan and dependent children, and persons with disabilities.

Reiterating the Government's commitment to transparent, accountable and efficient service delivery, Dr. Baljit Kaur said the Department has streamlined the implementation of welfare schemes to ensure that every eligible beneficiary receives financial assistance without delay. She added that these sustained efforts reflect the Punjab Government's vision of building a socially secure, inclusive and compassionate Punjab, where every citizen lives with dignity, confidence and a sense of security.