Chandigarh, October 28, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The Punjab Government has released ₹254.44 crore in financial assistance to around 2.43 lakh dependent and orphan children across the state till September 2026 under the Financial Assistance Scheme for Dependent Children, Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur said.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to protecting vulnerable children, Dr. Baljit Kaur said that under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, the state is strengthening social security initiatives to ensure that every child receives care, dignity, protection and opportunities to build a better future.
She said every child deserves affection, security and a fair chance to fulfil their aspirations. The government is working with sensitivity and commitment to create an inclusive society where children facing difficult circumstances receive timely support and can continue their education without unnecessary hardship.
According to the minister, the initiative reflects the vision of ‘Rangla Punjab’, in which children’s safety, well-being and overall development remain key priorities. The scheme aims to ensure that challenging family circumstances do not become obstacles to a child’s education, growth and future opportunities.
Dr. Baljit Kaur explained that the Financial Assistance Scheme for Dependent Children covers children below the age of 21 whose parents have both passed away, whose parents are both missing, or whose parents are unable to care for them due to physical or mental disabilities. The scheme also applies to eligible families with an annual income of ₹60,000 or less.
She further stated that the Punjab Government has made a budgetary provision of ₹432.78 crore for the scheme for the financial year 2026-27. Of this amount, ₹254.44 crore had been spent up to September 2026 to provide financial assistance to eligible beneficiaries.
The minister said the assistance helps children meet their basic needs, continue their education and work towards a more secure future. She added that financial support for vulnerable children is an important part of the government’s broader efforts to strengthen social security and promote inclusive development.
Dr. Baljit Kaur reiterated that the state government would continue to strengthen child welfare measures and work towards ensuring that every child receives care, protection and equal opportunities to realise their potential. She said the government remains committed to making Punjab a more inclusive and child-friendly state.
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