Punjab Newsline | Chandigarh
The Punjab Government has released ₹729 crore in financial assistance under the Financial Assistance Scheme for Widows and Destitute Women, providing relief to nearly seven lakh beneficiaries across the state.
Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr Baljit Kaur said the government has earmarked around ₹1,300 crore for the scheme in the current financial year. She said the initiative aims to provide financial support to eligible women and help them meet their basic needs.
Dr Baljit Kaur directed the concerned officials to ensure that all eligible women receive the benefits of the scheme without unnecessary delays. She stressed the need for a transparent and time-bound process for handling applications and instructed officials to identify women who qualify but may not yet be receiving assistance.
Under the scheme, widows and destitute women below the age of 58 are eligible for financial assistance, subject to the prescribed conditions. Unmarried women aged 30 years and above can also apply. Applicants must be residents of Punjab, and their annual family income should not exceed ₹60,000.
The minister emphasised that awareness about the scheme must be increased, particularly in rural, remote and underserved areas, so that eligible women are informed about the assistance available to them and the procedure for applying.
She called upon Panchayats, elected representatives, Anganwadi workers and social organisations to actively help identify eligible beneficiaries and spread information about the scheme. Their involvement, she said, can help ensure that financial assistance reaches women who need it the most.
Dr Baljit Kaur reiterated the government’s commitment to the welfare and social security of widows and destitute women. She said that coordinated efforts by the department and local representatives are essential to ensure that no eligible woman is left out of the scheme.
The minister also stressed that officials should address applications promptly and maintain transparency throughout the process, enabling beneficiaries to access the assistance in a timely manner.
