Punjab Honors Its Seniors: 2.2 Mn Elders Get Free Healthcare Under Mann Government’s New Initiative

National News: Punjab is not only the land of five rivers but also a place filled with countless stories and experiences of its elderly citizens. With modernization and changing lifestyles, families have become smaller, and many elders now live in loneliness. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s government has understood this silent pain and introduced a special scheme called ‘Sadde Buzurg Sadda Maan’ (Our Elders, Our Pride). This initiative is more than a policy—it is an emotional effort to bring back Punjab’s age-old tradition of respecting and caring for the elderly who have been the guiding pillars of every family.

Restoring Love and Care for the Elderly

This new program is not just another pension plan but an effort to revive the affection and respect that elders deserve. Launched on International Senior Citizens Day (October 3, 2023), the scheme aims to provide healthcare and dignity to senior citizens across the state. Minister Baljit Kaur explained that the main goal is to ensure the welfare of the elderly. Under this initiative, health camps are being organized in every district to treat age-related diseases. These camps offer full medical check-ups, including ENT and eye tests, free spectacles, medicines, and even free eye surgeries.

Ensuring Financial Stability for Seniors

The Punjab government has also introduced a pension scheme that benefits 2.2 million elderly citizens who now receive ₹1,500 monthly through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) straight into their bank accounts. This financial support ensures stability for those who have no fixed income. Senior citizen cards have been issued for convenience, and health camps have been set up in several districts such as Ludhiana, Moga, Bathinda, Sangrur, Amritsar, Jalandhar, and Patiala, among others.

A Helpline for Senior Citizens’ Support

To make the system more responsive, the government has launched a toll-free helpline number ‘14567’ through the Social Security, Women and Child Development Department. Senior citizens can use this number to share their complaints and seek help. Officials have assured that the government is dedicated to creating a safe and caring environment for older people. The helpline has become an important platform for solving their problems and ensuring their well-being under the ‘Sadde Buzurg Sadda Maan’ initiative.

Reviving Self-Respect and Family Bonds

Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur said that by August 2025, ₹2055.05 crore had been released under the old age pension scheme, helping 23.09 lakh senior citizens. For the current financial year, the government has allocated ₹4100 crore for this cause. But the scheme’s true achievement lies beyond financial or medical support—it has restored the lost sense of self-respect among the elderly. When they can see their grandchildren clearly through free glasses or collect medicines without depending on others, their happiness shines brightly. The ‘Sadde Buzurg Sadda Maan’ scheme proves that a family that respects its elders prospers, and a state that values them moves toward progress. This initiative is like a mark of honor on Punjab’s forehead, reminding everyone that elders are our heritage and pride. The Mann government’s step strengthens Punjab’s long-standing tradition of service, giving it a new meaning and deeper purpose.