Chandigarh, August 29, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The Punjab Government has released ₹181.23 crore out of a total budget provision of ₹432.38 crore for 2026-27 to provide financial assistance to orphaned and destitute children across the state, Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr Baljit Kaur said on Saturday.
The assistance is being provided under a welfare scheme aimed at supporting vulnerable children with their education, essential needs and overall well-being. Around 2.45 lakh children in Punjab are currently receiving regular financial assistance under the scheme, the minister said.
Dr Baljit Kaur said the funding was intended to ensure timely and uninterrupted support and help children move towards a secure and dignified future.
She said the Bhagwant Singh Mann-led government was committed to ensuring that children do not have to compromise on education, aspirations or opportunities because of poverty, neglect, difficult circumstances or the absence of parental support.
“Orphaned and destitute children are not merely figures in government records, but a shared responsibility of society,” she said, stressing that every child deserves protection, opportunity and the chance to progress with dignity.
The minister further said the scheme covers children below 21 years of age whose parents are either both deceased, both missing from home, or physically or mentally unable to care for the family because of their condition.
Dr Baljit Kaur said the government was working towards a sensitive and inclusive welfare system under which vulnerable children receive the support required to realise their potential.
She added that the initiative was not limited to financial assistance but reflected the government’s commitment to providing children with a safe childhood, dignified living conditions and equal opportunities to learn, grow and contribute to Punjab’s development.
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