*Punjab Government Records Over 1.11 Lakh Beneficiary Engagements Through Elderly Welfare Initiatives; Reinforces Commitment to Dignified Ageing: Dr. Baljit Kaur*

*Health Camps, Cataract Surgeries, Yoga Sessions and Day Care Centres Enhancing the Quality of Life of Senior Citizens*

*Minister Urges Citizens to Report Elder Abuse and Neglect on Elder Helpline 14567*

Chandigarh, June 21:Under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government continues to take significant strides towards ensuring a dignified, secure and healthy life for senior citizens across the State. During the financial year 2025-26, more than 1.11 lakh beneficiary engagements were recorded through various welfare, healthcare, awareness and social participation initiatives for the elderly, reflecting the Government’s unwavering commitment to promoting active and healthy ageing.

Sharing this information, Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur said that the welfare of senior citizens remains one of the Punjab Government’s foremost priorities. She stated that through healthcare services, community engagement programmes, awareness campaigns and support mechanisms, the Government is creating an environment where every elderly citizen feels respected, protected and socially connected.

Highlighting the achievements under healthcare interventions, Dr. Baljit Kaur informed that extensive health camps conducted across Punjab facilitated 7,552 screenings for non-communicable diseases (NCDs), 2,181 cancer screenings, 6,234 orthopaedic assessments, 11,991 eye examinations, 3,395 ENT check-ups and 2,202 physiotherapy sessions. In addition, 1,520 successful cataract surgeries were performed, significantly improving the quality of life of elderly beneficiaries.

To promote active ageing and strengthen social cohesion, 230 intergenerational activities were organised across the State, engaging 11,692 senior citizens and youth participants. These initiatives helped foster stronger bonds between generations while encouraging mutual understanding and respect. Likewise, 83 productive ageing initiatives witnessed the participation of 3,266 beneficiaries, enabling senior citizens to continue contributing meaningfully to society.

The Minister further informed that awareness programmes involving police personnel, administrative officers, Panchayati Raj Institutions, youth clubs and social organisations reached 8,070 individuals, sensitising them about the rights, welfare and protection of senior citizens.

Dr. Baljit Kaur also revealed that 29,186 registrations were recorded under Holistic Well-Being Camps. Additionally, 6,331 beneficiaries participated in yoga and meditation sessions, while 6,562 senior citizens took part in skill development and recreational activities. Eligible beneficiaries were also provided assistive devices such as hearing aids, walking sticks and wheelchairs under the Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana, helping them lead more independent and comfortable lives.

“Our senior citizens are the foundation of our families and society. Their wisdom, experience and lifelong contributions deserve the highest respect and care. The Punjab Government is fully committed to ensuring that every elderly citizen lives with dignity, security, good health and a sense of belonging.” said Dr. Baljit Kaur.

She further stated that Government Day Care Centres are providing emotional and physical support to elderly beneficiaries through facilities such as indoor games, treadmills for physical activity, patient beds, therapy equipment and massage machines. Special programmes were also organised on occasions such as the International Day of Older Persons, World Elder Abuse Awareness Day and International Day of Yoga to promote awareness regarding the welfare, rights and well-being of senior citizens.

Appealing to the public, Dr. Baljit Kaur urged citizens to immediately report any cases of abuse, neglect, violence or exploitation of senior citizens on the Elder Helpline 14567. She emphasised that safeguarding the dignity and well-being of elderly persons is a collective social responsibility and called upon all sections of society to actively contribute towards creating a caring, inclusive and secure environment for them.

Reaffirming the Government’s commitment, Dr. Baljit Kaur said that Punjab Government will continue to strengthen initiatives aimed at ensuring the care, protection, empowerment and holistic well-being of senior citizens across the State.