Major relief in Punjab as government waives Rs 67.84 crore loans of Dalit families

Chandigarh (The Uttam Hindu): The Bhagwant Mann-led Punjab government has taken several significant steps toward uplifting the Scheduled Caste (SC) community, focusing on social justice, financial empowerment, and education. In a historic move, the government announced a loan waiver worth ₹67.84 crore for 4,727 Dalit families who had borrowed from the Punjab Scheduled Castes Land Development and Finance Corporation (PSCFC). The decision has brought immense relief to thousands of families burdened by debt for years, marking a major stride toward economic self-reliance and social dignity.

Along with financial reforms, the Mann government has launched welfare schemes aimed at empowering Dalit families, especially women and children. Under the “Aashirwad Scheme,” financial assistance of ₹51,000 is provided to economically weaker families for the marriage of Scheduled Caste girls. The scheme also supports SC girls in areas of education, health, and nutrition helping them achieve independence and self-confidence. The initiative has been hailed as a step toward ensuring equal rights and opportunities for every daughter in Punjab.

The state government has also strengthened educational support through the Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme under the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Scholarship Portal. More than 2.37 lakh students received ₹267.54 crore in scholarships during 2024–25, with the entire process being digital and transparent. For 2025–26, the government has allocated ₹245 crore with a target to support around 2.7 lakh students. These initiatives reflect the Mann government’s vision of building a self-reliant and inclusive Punjab where every Dalit family lives with dignity, confidence and equal opportunity.