Phase II of ‘Sade Bazurag, Sada Maan’ launched in Mohali: Govt earmarks Rs 786 lakh for senior citizen welfare camps

Referring to the response received during the first phase launched in 2023, the minister said, “As many as 20,210 senior citizens were registered during Phase I. This overwhelming participation reflects both the need for such initiatives and the trust people have placed in the government’s welfare programmes.” She added that the remaining districts of Punjab would be covered under Phase II between February 2 and 18.

Detailing the services being provided, Dr Baljit said the camps offer comprehensive healthcare facilities, including eye check-ups and cataract screening, ENT and orthopaedic consultations, screening for non-communicable diseases and dementia, along with homoeopathic and ayurvedic treatment.“On-the-spot enrolment for social security pensions, issuance of Senior Citizen Cards and ALIMCO cards are also being facilitated,” she said.

She noted that awareness and assistance related to the Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana and Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007, along with information on legal rights, form an integral part of the initiative. “Essential assistive devices such as near-vision spectacles, hearing aids, walking aids, cervical collars, belts and wheelchairs are being distributed on the spot. A toll-free helpline 14567 is also operational across Punjab to support senior citizens.”

Sharing financial details, the minister said, “Around 23.33 lakh beneficiaries are currently receiving old age pensions every month. For the financial year 2025-26, a budgetary provision of Rs 4,100 crore has been made for pension schemes, reflecting the government’s priority towards social security.”

At the state-level camp in Mohali, the minister distributed ALIMCO kits and pension sanction letters to beneficiaries and felicitated NGOs and senior citizen associations for their services.

Additional Chief Secretary Vikas Partap said, “Pensions have been paid up to December 2025, and old age homes have been set up at Tapa (Barnala) and Mansa.”

Dera Bassi MLA Kuljit Singh Randhawa appreciated the government’s sustained efforts for senior citizens.

The event also featured cultural performances, including a Nukkad Natak and Malwai Gidha, reinforcing the message of respect and dignity for the elderly.