Punjab: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has officially launched the ‘Mavan-Dhiyan Satkaar Yojana’, a new initiative aimed at providing direct financial assistance to women across the state. Under the scheme, women from the general category will receive ₹1,000 per month, while women from the Scheduled Caste (SC) category will receive ₹1,500 monthly.
The scheme, which will be effective from April 2, 2026, ensures that the benefits are transferred directly into the bank accounts of eligible women through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), promoting financial independence and empowerment.
Eligibility Criteria and Registration Process
The scheme is inclusive of women working in private jobs, but excludes those employed in government positions or families paying income tax. Eligible women must meet the following criteria:
- Age 18 years or above
- Valid Aadhaar and Voter ID
- Registered resident of Punjab
Registration for the scheme will be free and available at Anganwadi centers and Seva Kendras. The process includes mandatory Aadhaar verification to ensure authenticity.
Focus on Women’s Empowerment and Financial Security
The Punjab government aims to strengthen women’s financial security and participation in household decision-making through this initiative. Chief Minister Mann highlighted that the program not only supports domestic well-being but also promotes gender equity across the state.
Women who are already receiving social security pensions will continue to receive their existing benefits in addition to the financial assistance provided under this scheme.
Who Is Excluded from the Scheme
The scheme specifically excludes:
- Current or retired government employees at state, central, or other state/UT levels
- Employees receiving pensions from public sector undertakings, statutory boards, corporations, committees, directorates, cooperative institutions, or tribunals
- Women who filed income tax in the previous financial year
- Current or former ministers, MPs, MLAs, and their spouses
This ensures that the program targets women in need of financial support.
Implementation and Monitoring
The scheme will be implemented by the Women and Child Development Department and the Social Security Department, under a high-level implementation committee. Benefits will be distributed according to pre-defined schedules, and any changes to the process will require approval from the Chief Minister.
By providing financial assistance directly to women, the Punjab government aims to reduce dependency and empower women economically, fulfilling one of the key promises made during the 2022 elections.
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