PHAGWARA: In a major relief for the Dalit community ahead of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s birth anniversary, Punjab government has announced a complete waiver of all loans taken through the Scheduled Caste Land Development and Finance Corporation until March 31, 2020. The move, declared in the state budget for the financial year 2025-26, is expected to benefit 4, 650 individuals from the Dalit community.
Hailing the decision, Dr Raj Kumar Chabbewal M.P. and Aam Aadmi Party’s (AAP) Phagwara Assembly in-charge Joginder Singh Mann praised Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema for presenting what he termed a “historic and progressive” budget.
They said “With this loan waiver, thousands of Dalit families will be relieved from financial burdens, enabling them to move towards economic empowerment.
Focus on Key Sectors
Apart from loan waivers, the budget outlines major allocations aimed at holistic state development. Key highlights include.
Rs 110 crore for the war against drug abuse
₹150 crore for drug rehabilitation centers
₹979 crore to promote sports
₹3, 500 crore for rural development
Rs 5 crore for each of Punjab’s 117 Assembly constituencies for overall development • Free health insurance for all citizens and upgradation of government hospitals for free treatment.
Chabbewal and Mann particularly appreciated the government’s efforts to combat drug addiction and promote sports, emphasizing that Punjab is determined to eradicate drug mafias and provide youth with constructive opportunities.
‘From Udta Punjab to Rangla Punjab.’
Reflecting on Punjab’s transformation, They remarked that the state, once infamous for drug-related issues as depicted in the film Udta Punjab, is now on the path to becoming a prosperous and vibrant Rangla Punjab.
With these budgetary provisions, the AAP government aims to ensure sustainable development across both urban and rural sectors, reinforcing its commitment to public welfare and economic growth.