CHANDIGARH, April 16 — The Punjab government has released over ₹352 crore to fund the old age pension scheme for March 2026, targeting more than 23.51 lakh senior citizens. Dr. Baljit Kaur, the Minister for Social Security, Women and Child Development, stated that this disbursement is part of a broader effort to strengthen the financial security of the elderly across the state.
A significant budget allocation of ₹4,000 crore has been established for the current financial year to ensure that monthly assistance reaches beneficiaries without delay. Dr. Kaur noted that the pension serves as a vital lifeline for many citizens, allowing them to maintain self-reliance and meet their daily expenses with dignity. Eligibility for the program remains defined by age—65 for men and 58 for women—and an annual income threshold of ₹60,000.
The Minister also clarified that land ownership criteria apply to the scheme, with limits set at 2.5 acres for irrigated land and up to 5 acres for barani or water-logged areas. She maintained that these parameters are designed to ensure that assistance is funneled toward those most in need of social support.
To streamline the process, Dr. Kaur directed district officers to expedite any pending applications and perform regular field verifications. She asserted that under the current administration, the focus remains on transparency and the timely delivery of funds. “The government’s objective is to ensure that every elderly citizen in the state lives with dignity and financial security,” she declared.
