Photo Source: Babushai Bureau
Punjab Govt tightens monitoring of SC Welfare Schemes; 2.45 lakh scholarship applications under review
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, November 12, 2025: Reaffirming the Punjab Government’s commitment to social justice and empowerment, Social Justice, Empowerment and Minorities Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur on Tuesday directed all departments to ensure strict and transparent implementation of welfare schemes meant for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and marginalized sections.
Chairing a high-level review meeting, Dr. Baljit Kaur evaluated the progress of works being carried out under the Scheduled Caste Sub-Plan (SCSP) and issued firm instructions to officers to submit detailed reports on fund utilization.
She stressed that SCSP funds must be used exclusively for the welfare of the Scheduled Caste population, warning that any negligence or laxity would invite disciplinary action.
“The Department of Social Justice is committed to the upliftment of economically weaker and disadvantaged sections. Every rupee must directly benefit the intended beneficiaries,” she said.
The Minister reviewed major social welfare initiatives, including the Post Matric Scholarship Scheme, Aashirwad Scheme, and construction and renovation of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Bhawans. Officials informed her that around 2.45 lakh applications have been received on the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Portal for the Post Matric Scholarship for SC Students (2025–26), with verification and disbursement currently in progress.
Emphasizing the government’s zero-tolerance approach toward inefficiency, Dr. Kaur said the Mann-led government believes in ensuring equal opportunity and timely delivery of assistance to all deserving citizens.
She also directed officials to organize awareness camps in every district to inform eligible beneficiaries about welfare schemes and encourage maximum participation.
Senior officials present at the meeting included Principal Secretary V.K. Meena, Additional Secretary Ravinder Singh, Director Vimmi Bhullar, Deputy Director Sanjeev Kumar Mannan, and Nodal Officers Ravinderpal Singh, Suksagar Singh, Harpal Singh Gill, and Livpreet Kaur, Research Officer.