Dr. Baljit Kaur: The Punjab Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, is prioritizing the upliftment of economically weaker sections to realize the vision of a “Rangla Punjab”. Social Security, Women & Child Development Minister, Dr. Baljit Kaur, emphasized this while addressing a gathering in Malout, where she distributed financial assistance to beneficiaries under the Sponsorship and Foster Care Scheme for the welfare of destitute children.
Dr. Baljit Kaur announced that nearly 3,000 applications have been received so far, and during the current financial year, Rs. 7.91 crore has been disbursed to support 1,704 children. She stressed the importance of assisting those who have been left behind in society and integrating them into the mainstream.
The Minister highlighted that the Sponsorship Scheme provides Rs. 4,000 per month to children who have lost their parents, are orphans, or have parents suffering from serious illnesses or who are imprisoned. This support enables these children to access quality education and become responsible citizens.
Dr. Baljit Kaur informed that the Punjab Government has allocated Rs. 7.91 crore for the Sponsorship Scheme in the current financial year, aiming to cover 7,000 children by March 31, 2025. She also mentioned that a dedicated helpline, 1098, is operational for reporting any cases of child labor, begging, or destitution.
The Minister assured that the government will make the 181 helpline more effective by increasing staff and strengthening laws against crimes against women. She also promised to ensure safety measures for women working night shifts.