- Scheme also seeks to support economically weaker families and encourage gender equality, inclusive development.
Punjab Newsline | Chandigarh
The Government of Punjab has officially notified a new welfare scheme titled “Mukh Mantri Mawan Dheeyan Satkar” aimed at strengthening financial security and empowerment of women across the state. The notification was issued by the Department of Social Security, Women and Child Development.
According to the notification, the scheme will come into effect from the date of its publication in the official gazette and will be applicable across the entire state of Punjab. Under the scheme, women belonging to the Scheduled Caste category will receive a monthly financial assistance of ₹1,500, while women from other categories will be provided ₹1,000 per month.
The primary objective of the scheme is to enhance women’s financial independence, improve household welfare, and promote their participation in financial decision-making. It also seeks to support economically weaker families and encourage gender equality and inclusive development.
Eligible, beneficiaries must be women aged 18 years or above
To be eligible, beneficiaries must be women aged 18 years or above, registered as voters in Punjab, and possess valid Aadhaar and voter ID cards. However, certain categories have been excluded from the scheme, including serving or retired government employees, pension beneficiaries of public sector undertakings, income tax payers, and current or former MPs, MLAs, ministers, as well as their spouses.
The financial assistance will be transferred directly to beneficiaries’ Aadhaar-linked bank accounts through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). Registration under the scheme will be completely free at designated centers such as Anganwadi centres and Seva Kendras.
The government has clarified that there will be no limit on the number of eligible women from a single family who can avail benefits. Additionally, existing social security pensioners will also be entitled to receive benefits under this scheme without any reduction in their current pensions.
A high-level implementation committee headed by the Chief Secretary has been constituted to oversee the execution of the scheme and take necessary financial and administrative decisions for its smooth implementation.
The initiative is expected to provide consistent financial support to women and strengthen their role in both household and economic spheres across Punjab.