CHANDIGARH: In a significant move towards the upliftment of Backward Classes and Economically Weaker Sections, the Punjab Government has released Rs 4.43 crore to 870 beneficiaries received on the Ashirwad Portal under the Ashirwad scheme for the fiscal year 2023-24. This allocation has been made from the budget provision of 2024-25.
Dr. Baljit Kaur, the Minister of Social Justice, Empowerment, and Minorities, announced that beneficiaries from the districts of Barnala, Faridkot, Moga, Sri Muktsar Sahib, and Rupnagar have been released financial assistance. She explained that 98 beneficiaries from Barnala, 128 from Faridkot, 207 from Moga, 237 from Sri Muktsar Sahib and 200 from Rupnagar have been covered.
Dr. Baljit Kaur emphasized that the Punjab Government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann is committed to the welfare of all sections. The state government continues to prioritize the needs of Backward Classes and Economically Weaker Sections, ensuring that their welfare is addressed diligently.
She added that eligibility for the Ashirwad scheme requires applicants to be permanent residents of Punjab, belong to Scheduled Castes, Backward Classes, or other economically weaker families, and have a family income below Rs 32, 790 annually. Additionally, up to two daughters from such families are eligible to benefit from this scheme.
Emphasizing the transparent and direct disbursement process, Dr. Baljit Kaur informed that financial assistance is deposited directly into the bank accounts of the beneficiaries.