Nearly Seven Lakh Women Receive a Lifeline of Social Security Across Punjab
Around ₹1,300 Crore Earmarked for the Scheme During the Current Financial Year
Dr. Baljit Kaur Calls for Collective Efforts to Ensure No Eligible Woman is Left Behind
Chandigarh, October 25:
Strengthening the social security net for women facing hardship, Punjab’s Minister for Social Security, Women and Child Development, Dr. Baljit Kaur, today said that the Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann-led Government has released nearly ₹729 crore under the Financial Assistance Scheme for Widows and Destitute Women, providing much-needed financial support to nearly seven lakh eligible women across the State.
Dr. Baljit Kaur said the scheme represents the Government’s resolve to help vulnerable women lead lives of dignity, security and confidence. She emphasised that timely financial assistance not only eases economic hardships but also empowers women to rebuild their lives with greater self-reliance and hope.
The Minister informed that around ₹1,300 crore has been provided for the scheme during the current financial year, reaffirming the Punjab Government’s continued focus on strengthening the social security framework for widows, destitute women and other vulnerable sections of society.
Sharing the eligibility criteria, Dr. Baljit Kaur said that widows and destitute women below 58 years of age, as well as unmarried women aged 30 years and above, are eligible for assistance under the scheme. Applicants must be residents of Punjab and their annual family income should not exceed ₹60,000.
The Minister directed the officers of the Social Security Department to proactively identify eligible beneficiaries, ensure transparent and time-bound disposal of applications and intensify awareness at the grassroots, particularly in rural and remote areas, so that every deserving woman can access the benefits without inconvenience.
Appealing for community participation, Dr. Baljit Kaur urged Panchayats, elected representatives, Anganwadi workers and social organisations to help identify eligible women and encourage them to avail the scheme. She said the success of a welfare programme is measured not merely by funds released but by its ability to transform lives, adding that the Punjab Government remains committed to ensuring that the benefits of social security reach the women who need them the most.
