Chandigarh, February 18:
The Punjab Government, under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, is working with unwavering commitment and sensitivity to ensure the welfare of marginalised, poor and economically weaker sections of society. This was stated by Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur.
Sharing details, Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur informed that under various social security schemes, the Punjab Government has released more than ₹5,748 crore up to January 2026 (during the financial year 2025–26), ensuring direct financial assistance to eligible beneficiaries across the state.
She said that over 35.70 Lakhs beneficiaries are receiving regular and uninterrupted financial support under these schemes, thereby strengthening the economic security of the poor, senior citizens, women, children and persons with disabilities.
The Cabinet Minister further stated that an amount of ₹3,806.43 crore has been disbursed under the Old Age Pension Scheme, ₹1,099.97 crore for widows and destitute women, ₹385.94 crore for orphaned and dependent children, while ₹456.03 crore has been released as financial assistance to persons with disabilities.
Dr. Baljit Kaur emphasised that social security schemes are not merely financial support mechanisms, but represent hope, dignity and security for lakhs of families. “When a senior citizen receives old age pension, a widow gains financial independence, or a person with disability becomes self-reliant, it reflects the true success of governance,” she said. She added that the government is committed to ensuring that no needy person feels neglected and that government assistance reaches every deserving household with dignity, sensitivity and transparency.
Reiterating the state government’s firm commitment towards the welfare of marginalised and economically weaker sections, Dr. Baljit Kaur said that in line with the directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government aims to ensure social security, dignity and financial empowerment for every needy citizen. To achieve this objective, a budget provision of ₹6,175 crore has been earmarked for social security schemes during the financial year 2025–26.
