Photo Source; Babushahi Bureau
Punjab releases Rs 254.44 crore for 2.43 lakh dependent children
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, October 28, 2026: The Punjab government has released ₹254.44 crore in financial assistance to around 2.43 lakh dependent children across the state up to September 2026 under its Financial Assistance Scheme for Dependent Children, Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr Baljit Kaur said on Wednesday.
The government has made a budget provision of ₹432.78 crore for the scheme for the financial year 2026-27, aimed at supporting children facing difficult family circumstances and helping them meet their basic needs and continue their education.
Dr Baljit Kaur said the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring that vulnerable children receive care, protection and financial support.
The scheme covers eligible children below 21 years of age whose parents have both died, whose parents are both missing, or whose parents are unable to care for them due to physical or mental disabilities. Eligible families must also meet the prescribed annual income limit of ₹60,000 or less.
The minister said the financial assistance is intended to help beneficiaries meet essential expenses, pursue education and work towards a secure future.
She added that, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the state government is seeking to strengthen child welfare measures and provide equal opportunities to children from vulnerable backgrounds.
Dr Baljit Kaur reiterated that the government would continue working to improve the welfare and protection of children across Punjab.