JALANDHAR : In a landmark move coinciding with the birth anniversary of Babasaheb Ambedkar, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has launched a decisive welfare campaign aimed at empowering nearly every woman in the state. Under this new initiative, women across Punjab will receive monthly financial assistance ranging from ₹1,000 to ₹1,500.
Terming the scheme a true tribute to Ambedkar’s vision of social justice and equality, the Chief Minister inaugurated the registration process today. The scheme is designed to be highly accessible, requiring only three basic documents for women over the age of 18 to enroll. To ensure maximum reach, the government has mobilized a vast network of camps and support staff to assist beneficiaries directly at their doorsteps.
Phase-wise Rollout and Guaranteed Benefits
The ambitious program will initially roll out across nine specific constituencies before expanding statewide. Key details regarding the timeline include:
• Pilot Launch: The scheme has commenced in Adampur, Malout, Sri Anandpur Sahib, Dirba, Sunam, Moga, Kotkapura, Batala, and Patiala Rural.
• Statewide Expansion: Registration for the remaining 108 constituencies will begin on May 15, 2026.
• Payment Schedule: Monthly disbursements are set to begin in July 2026.
• No Deadline Pressure: There is no closing date for registration. CM Mann assured citizens that even those who register late will receive arrears dating back to July, ensuring no eligible woman loses out on her benefits.
Simplified Documentation and Support Systems
To keep the process hurdle-free, the government has kept documentation to a minimum. Applicants only need a Punjab-based Voter ID, a bank passbook, and Aadhaar card confirming their Punjab residence.
For women belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC), an SC certificate is required to claim the higher amount of ₹1,500. Addressing concerns regarding missing paperwork, the Chief Minister stated:
"I know many of my sisters may not have a caste certificate ready. Do not worry. You can register now and start receiving ₹1,000 monthly. Once your certificate is issued, the government will pay the ₹500 monthly balance as arrears effective from July."
Ground-Level Implementation: 'Mahila Satikar Sakhis'
The scale of the initiative is supported by a massive infrastructure of 26,000 registration centers. These include all Anganwadi centers, Sewa Kendras, and Municipal Corporation offices.
Furthermore, the government is deploying 'Mahila Satikar Sakhis' in every village and ward. These dedicated workers will provide 100% coverage, assisting women who may face difficulties in navigating the registration forms or reaching the centers.
A Vision for Independence
Accompanied by senior AAP leader and Punjab in-charge Manish Sisodia, CM Mann highlighted that the scheme would cover approximately 97% of the female population over 18, excluding only a very limited category. By providing direct cash transfers, the administration aims to foster financial independence and social security for women across the state.
The initiative marks one of the most comprehensive direct financial assistance programs for women in the country, signaling a significant shift toward gender-focused social safety nets in Punjab.