Chandigarh, August 24 : The Punjab Government led by  Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, remains unwavering in its commitment to the welfare of all societal segments. Continuing its focus on uplifting the backward classes and economically weaker sections (EWS)  the State Government has sanctioned an amount of ₹3.44 crore for the districts of Bathinda, Mansa and SBS Nagar under the Ashirwad scheme.

Amount will benefit a total of 675 beneficiaries

Social Justice, Empowerment, and Minorities Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur provided additional details, further stating that the amount will benefit a total of 675 beneficiaries from backward classes and economically weaker sections across three districts. Moreover, this initiative underscores the government’s commitment to uplifting marginalised communities.

This allocation addresses the pending applications from the financial year 2023-24 and covers the beneficiaries who registered on the Ashirwad portal for the year 2024-25.The scheme has approved 33 beneficiaries in Bathinda, 46 in Mansa, and 196 in SBS Nagar.

applicants must be permanent residents of Punjab

The Ashirwad scheme mandates that applicants must be permanent residents of Punjab, belong to Scheduled Castes, Backward Classes, or other economically weaker families and have an annual family income below ₹32,790. Eligible families can avail benefits for up to two daughters under this scheme.

Dr. Baljit Kaur reiterated the Punjab Government’s ongoing efforts to ensure the welfare of Scheduled Castes, Backward Classes, and Economically Weaker Sections. Furthermore, she emphasized that they not only transfer the financial assistance directly to the beneficiaries’ bank accounts but also prioritize transparency and efficiency in the disbursement process. Consequently, these measures reinforce the government’s commitment to supporting vulnerable communities.