The Punjab Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, has taken several important decisions, including the approval of the Mukh Mantri Mawan Dheeyan Satkar Yojna, a major welfare initiative aimed at empowering women across the state.
Mukh Mantri Mawan Dheeyan Satkar Yojna: Key Highlights
The scheme is one of the largest women-centric welfare programmes in India and is expected to benefit over 97% of women in Punjab.
Financial Assistance
- ₹1,000 per month for general category women
- ₹1,500 per month for women from Scheduled Castes
The funds will be transferred directly into beneficiaries’ bank accounts through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system.
Objective of the Scheme
The government aims to:
- Promote financial independence of women
- Strengthen their role in household decision-making
- Encourage savings, investment, and financial literacy
- Improve overall social and economic empowerment
The scheme is expected to significantly uplift women, especially those from economically weaker sections.
Eligibility Criteria
Women can avail the benefits if they:
- Are 18 years or above
- Are registered voters in Punjab
- Possess a valid Aadhaar card and Voter ID
Notably, there is no limit on the number of eligible women in a family, and existing pension beneficiaries will continue to receive their pensions along with this benefit.
Budget and Implementation
- A total of ₹9,300 crore has been allocated in the 2026–27 Budget
- The government will ensure last-mile delivery through awareness campaigns and support systems, especially in rural areas
Other Key Decisions by the Cabinet
1. Recruitment in Planning Department
The Cabinet approved filling 70 direct recruitment posts in the Planning Department, following restructuring and merger of departments.
2. Changes in Power Sector Appointments
Amendments were approved in qualification and experience criteria for top posts in:
- Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL)
- Punjab State Transmission Corporation Limited (TRANSCO)
3. Staffing for Coal Mine Operations
Approval was granted to appoint contractual staff for operations at the Pachhwara Central Coal Mine (Jharkhand).
An empowered committee will oversee recruitment and related decisions.
4. Industrial Policy Reforms
- Industrial plots mortgaged with banks can now be converted to freehold (with NOC and conditions)
- A 5% conversion fee will apply in certain cases
5. Amendment to Infrastructure Act
The Cabinet approved introducing the Punjab Common Infrastructure (Regulation and Maintenance) (Amendment) Bill, 2026.
Key features include:
- Formation of Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) for industrial areas
- Better management of shared infrastructure like roads, lighting, drainage
- Creation of a District Monitoring Authority for oversight and dispute resolution
6. River Management and Infrastructure Support
The Cabinet also relaxed norms for desilting in the Sutlej River to provide earth material for projects by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).
This move supports:
- Highway construction projects
- Flood management and river maintenance efforts
Conclusion
The decisions taken by the Punjab Cabinet reflect a strong focus on women empowerment, infrastructure development, and administrative reforms.
The Mukh Mantri Mawan Dheeyan Satkar Yojna, in particular, stands out as a landmark initiative that aims to provide direct financial support and enhance the economic independence of women across the state.