Chandigarh, April 14: Adopting a major welfare push on the birth anniversary of Babasaheb Ambedkar, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Tuesday launched the ‘Mawan Dheeyan Satkar Yojna’, a near-universal financial aid scheme for women in Punjab. The initiative promises monthly assistance of ₹1,500 for Dalit women and ₹1,000 for women in other categories, aiming to provide independent financial security to over 97% of the state’s female population.
The Chief Minister affirmed that the scheme serves as a tangible tribute to Ambedkar’s vision of social equality. Speaking in Adampur, Mann stated that the registration process has already commenced in nine pilot constituencies, with the remaining 108 areas set to begin enrollment on May 15. All women above the age of 18 possessing a valid Aadhaar card, Voter ID, and bank account are eligible to apply.
“This scheme will have a monumental effect on the upliftment of women by making them independent and empowering them,” Mann declared. He noted that the government has sanctioned ₹9,300 crore in the 2026-27 budget to ensure the sustainability of the program.
To facilitate seamless enrollment, the state has established 26,000 registration centers at Anganwadi units and Sewa Kendras. Mann further asserted that “Mahila Satkar Sakhis” will be deployed in every village and ward to provide door-to-door assistance for those lacking documentation. The Chief Minister maintained that there is no deadline for registration, and any woman enrolling as late as September will still receive arrears dating back to July 2026.
Accompanied by senior leader Manish Sisodia and other cabinet ministers, the Chief Minister handed over the first registration certificates to local beneficiaries. He affirmed that the scheme is designed to enhance women’s participation in social and economic decision-making across the state.
