In a significant move to support the welfare of Scheduled Castes and Persons with Disabilities, the Punjab Government has distributed loans totaling ₹9.14 crore to 522 beneficiaries in the financial year 2024-25, including a subsidy worth ₹1.46 crore.
The announcement was made by Punjab’s Minister for Social Justice, Empowerment, and Minorities, Dr. Baljit Kaur.
Under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government is making concerted efforts to empower marginalized and underprivileged communities through initiatives in education, financial aid, and social upliftment.
Dr. Baljit Kaur highlighted the role of the Punjab Scheduled Castes and Persons with Disabilities Finance and Development Corporation in providing concessional loans designed to promote self-employment and higher education opportunities for these groups.
The Cabinet Minister detailed the eligibility criteria for these schemes, noting that individuals belonging to the Scheduled Caste community, aged between 18 and 55 years, with an annual income of up to ₹3 lakh, can avail themselves of loans for self-employment or higher education.
Additionally, persons with disabilities, aged between 18 and 60 years, with a minimum of 40% disability, are also eligible, irrespective of their caste.
Dr. Baljit Kaur reaffirmed the Punjab Government's commitment to launching new initiatives aimed at uplifting socially and economically disadvantaged sections, ensuring they have equal access to employment and educational opportunities.