Punjab Aims to Provide Employment Opportunities for Women Near Their Homes

Chandigarh: The Punjab government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, is taking significant steps to empower women and girls across the state. The government’s primary focus remains on fostering development while creating opportunities for women to achieve self-reliance.

Since its inception, the Mann government has launched various initiatives for the welfare of women. A new campaign has been introduced to provide women with employment opportunities close to their homes, thereby enhancing their economic independence and encouraging their active participation in the workforce.

As part of this initiative, the state is organizing employment camps in every district. Under the ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ campaign, these camps aim to provide job opportunities for women and distribute sports kits. Companies conduct on-the-spot interviews at these camps, offering jobs near participants’ residences. Additionally, a team of 22 doctors provides free health check-ups to women attending these events.

To support sericulture farmers, self-help groups, and women involved in the silk industry, the Punjab government organized ‘Silk Expo-2024’ from December 4 to December 9 at Kisan Bhawan, Chandigarh. This event aimed to promote the silk trade and increase the income of those involved, particularly women.

The government has also announced the release of ₹28 crore to approximately 70,000 beneficiaries under a nutrition program for pregnant and lactating mothers. This initiative ensures better health and nutrition for women during critical phases of motherhood.

During its 32-month tenure, the Mann government has provided free bus rides worth ₹1,548 crore to women across Punjab. More than 32.46 crore free trips on Punjab Roadways, Punbus, and PRTC buses have significantly improved women’s mobility and access to opportunities.

To further support working women, the Punjab government is committed to building more hostels in major cities such as Mohali, Ludhiana, Jalandhar, and Amritsar. These hostels aim to provide a safe and supportive environment for women pursuing their careers.

In a landmark move, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann announced that women would now be recruited into the Fire Brigade Department—an unprecedented step in India. The government has amended rules to make recruitment easier for women by reducing the minimum weightage requirement from 60 to 40 kilograms. The Fire Safety and Emergency Service Bill, recently passed in the Vidhan Sabha, paves the way for women’s inclusion in this critical service.

The Bhagwant Singh Mann-led government continues to introduce groundbreaking measures to empower women, ensuring their active role in Punjab’s development while prioritizing their health, safety, and opportunities.