Punjab women laud direct benefit transfers for financial scheme
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Punjab women praise the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system for financial assistance under the Mukh Mantri Mawan Dheeyan Satkar Yojana.
- Approximately ₹1,149 crore has been transferred to nearly 33 lakh women, with Scheduled Caste beneficiaries receiving ₹4,500 and others ₹3,000.
- The scheme, one of Punjab's largest women-focused social security initiatives, aims to strengthen women's financial security and transparency in fund distribution.
Beneficiaries of Punjab's Mukh Mantri Mawan Dheeyan Satkar Yojana are expressing strong approval for the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system, reporting that financial aid is reaching them efficiently and without intermediaries. The Punjab government stated that nearly ₹1,149 crore has been directly deposited into the bank accounts of approximately 33 lakh women through this scheme.
Eligible Scheduled Caste beneficiaries have received ₹4,500 in three monthly installments of ₹1,500, while women from other categories have received ₹3,000 in similar installments. With over 70 lakh women registered, the government highlights the scheme as a significant women-focused social security initiative in the state.
Women across Punjab have shared positive feedback on the DBT mechanism, emphasizing its transparency and direct access to funds. Sarabjit Kaur, 32, from Gurdaspur, noted that direct transfers ensure the money is used for essential household needs, stating, "If the money had been distributed in cash, it might not have been used properly. Now the amount is safe in our account and we can withdraw it whenever needed."
If the money had been distributed in cash, it might not have been used properly. Now the amount is safe in our account and we can withdraw it whenever needed.
Other beneficiaries, like Gagandeep Kaur, 35, from Harchowal village, described the process as quick and hassle-free, with funds credited within days of application. Suman Kumari, 49, from Sri Hargobindpur, mentioned the assistance has been crucial for meeting household and educational expenses for her daughters pursuing higher education. Harpal Kaur from Ahmedgarh added that direct transfers empower women to prioritize their spending.
Punjab Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur affirmed the government's commitment to financial security and dignity for women, promising timely and transparent assistance. Axis Bank, the scheme's nodal banking partner, also reiterated its commitment to supporting these large-scale DBT programs to enhance financial inclusion.
We are committed to ensuring that every eligible beneficiary receives assistance in a transparent and timely manner. No eligible woman will be left out of the scheme.
Originally published by Hindustan Times in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.