Punjab Releases INR 314 Crore for Over 2.3 Lakh Dependent Children, Minister Confirms

Dr Baljit Kaur, Punjab’s Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister, said on Friday that the state government has released INR 314.22 crore as financial assistance under the Dependent Children Pension Scheme for orphaned and dependent children across Punjab. This financial aid will benefit 237,406 children to provide them economic stability and support their education and development.

Dr Kaur emphasised that the scheme is focused on enabling these children to pursue education, integrate into the mainstream of society, and move toward a self-reliant future. She described orphaned and dependent children not as mere government statistics but as a collective responsibility of society.

She explained that under the scheme, children below 21 years of age are eligible for benefits if both their parents are deceased, missing, or physically or mentally incapacitated and unable to support the family. The minister reiterated the Bhagwant Mann-led Punjab government’s commitment to ensure that no child’s education or dreams are hindered by financial hardship or neglect.

According to Dr Kaur, this initiative reflects the state’s dedication to not only giving financial aid but also securing a safe, dignified and bright future for each eligible child in the state.

Source: Times of India