Women’s Day 2026: Punjab Announces ‘Mava-Dhiyan Satkar Yojana’ With Monthly Aid of Rs 1000

On March 8, 2026, marking International Women's Day, the Punjab government announced a major welfare initiative aimed at strengthening women's financial independence. The government led by Bhagwant Mann unveiled the "Mukhyamantri Mava-Dhiyan Satkar Yojana", a scheme expected to benefit a large majority of women across the state.

Presenting the state budget, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said the programme will provide monthly financial assistance to eligible women aged 18 and above. Under the scheme, most beneficiaries will receive ₹1,000 per month, while women from Scheduled Caste communities will receive ₹1,500 per month, with the funds directly transferred to their bank accounts.

According to the government's estimate, around 97% of women in Punjab could come under the programme's coverage. However, Members of Parliament, MLAs, and women who pay income tax will not be eligible. Women already receiving social security pensions will still qualify for benefits under the scheme.

The Mann government described the initiative as more than just financial aid, calling it a step toward empowering women and increasing their participation in household and social decision-making. Officials say the assistance could help improve women's access to healthcare, nutrition, and educational needs within families.

The announcement also fulfils a key electoral promise made by the Aam Aadmi Party ahead of the Punjab assembly elections. Party leader Arvind Kejriwal and the chief minister had earlier pledged direct financial support for women in the state.

Politically, the scheme is seen as a significant move in Punjab, where debates over women's economic empowerment have intensified in recent years. The government has projected the programme as part of its broader effort to deliver on pre-poll guarantees and expand welfare support for households across the state.