Adampur(JALANDHAR), 14 April (H.S.): Marking the birth anniversary of B. R. Ambedkar, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Tuesday announced a major women-centric welfare initiative, rolling out the “Mawan Dheeyan Satkar Yojna” aimed at providing near-universal financial support to women across the state. The scheme promises a monthly assistance of ₹1000 for women from the general category and ₹1500 for women belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC), positioning it among the largest direct benefit programmes for women in India.

Calling the initiative a true tribute to Ambedkar’s vision of equality and social justice, the Chief Minister launched the registration process in Adampur, with pilot implementation beginning in nine constituencies including Malout, Sri Anandpur Sahib, Dirba, Sunam, Moga, Kotkapura, Batala, and Patiala Rural. Registration across the remaining 108 constituencies will begin from May 15, while monthly payments are scheduled to commence from July 2026.

A key highlight of the scheme is its inclusive approach. CM Mann clarified that there is no deadline for registration, ensuring that all eligible women will receive benefits irrespective of when they enroll. He emphasized that even those registering later will receive arrears from July onwards, guaranteeing full financial support without any loss.

To simplify the process, the government has kept documentation requirements minimal. Women need only three documents: an Aadhaar card with a Punjab address, a Punjab voter ID, and a bank passbook. For SC beneficiaries, an SC certificate is required; however, the Chief Minister assured that women without the certificate can still register and begin receiving ₹1000 per month. The additional ₹500 will be credited once the certificate is submitted, including arrears from July.

To ensure last-mile delivery and ease of access, the government has set up an extensive support system. Over 26,000 registration centres have been established across the state, including Anganwadi centres, Sewa Kendras, and municipal offices. Additionally, “Mahila Satkar Sakhis” will be deployed in every village and urban ward to provide doorstep assistance. These volunteers will help women understand the scheme, complete documentation, and resolve any issues during the registration process.

Highlighting the broader vision behind the initiative, CM Mann said the scheme is designed to strengthen women’s financial autonomy, improve household welfare, and promote gender equality. He noted that while Punjab has made significant progress in social development, many women, particularly from economically weaker sections, still lack independent financial security.

The Chief Minister stated that the scheme adopts a near-universal eligibility framework, covering all women aged 18 years and above who are registered voters in Punjab and possess valid identification documents. With an estimated coverage of over 97% of the state’s female population, the initiative is expected to have a transformative impact on women’s empowerment.

The Punjab government has already allocated ₹9300 crore for the scheme in the 2026–27 budget, underlining its commitment to large-scale implementation. CM Mann described the programme as a landmark step toward ensuring dignity, financial independence, and active participation of women in socio-economic decision-making.

On the occasion, the Chief Minister also handed over registration certificates to selected beneficiaries, who welcomed the move and expressed hope that the scheme would significantly enhance their financial stability and independence.

Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH