Fulfilling a key election promise, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Punjab has introduced a scheme offering monthly financial aid to women. Under the Mukhya Mantri Mawan Dhiyan Satikar Yojana, adult women will receive Rs 1,000 per month in the general category and Rs 1,500 for Scheduled Caste (SC) individuals. This initiative aims to benefit 97% of adult women in the state, with a budget allocation of Rs 9,300 crore for 2026-27.
Presenting the Budget in the state Assembly on International Women’s Day, Finance Minister Harpal Cheema outlined a total budget expenditure of Rs 260,437 crore for the upcoming fiscal year. The government’s focus on responsible fiscal management is evident, with an estimated revenue deficit of 2.06% of the GSDP and a fiscal deficit of 4.08% of GSDP.
To commemorate Women’s Day, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s family members and other dignitaries were present in the Assembly. Finance Minister Cheema emphasized the government’s commitment to fulfilling its electoral promises, highlighting achievements in sectors like electricity, healthcare, education, and social welfare. The new scheme, ‘Mukh Mantri Mawan Dhian Satikar Yojna,’ is positioned as a landmark initiative for women’s empowerment in India.
