The Punjab government, led by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, has recently made significant changes to the financial assistance provided to special persons in the province. This initiative, known as the ‘Himmat Card,’ is aimed at improving the lives of individuals with special needs by offering them increased financial support. The program is set to be implemented gradually to ensure that all eligible persons receive the benefits they deserve.
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Increased Financial Assistance
The amount of financial assistance provided through the Himmat Card has been increased from Rs7,500 to Rs10,000. This increase is expected to help 65,000 special persons across Punjab. The Chief Minister announced this change during a ceremony, emphasizing the government’s commitment to supporting vulnerable groups. The funds will be disbursed every three months, providing consistent financial support to those in need.
| Key Features | Details |
| Assistance Amount | Rs10,000 per eligible person |
| Frequency of Payment | Every 3 months |
| Eligibility | Special persons certificate required |
| Financial Provider | Bank of Punjab |
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Himmat Card, individuals must hold a special persons certificate issued by their district or tehsil. This certificate is necessary to prove the individual’s special status and eligibility for the program. Importantly, individuals who are already receiving financial assistance from other government agencies, such as the Benazir Income Support Program, will not be eligible for the Himmat Card. This rule ensures that the assistance reaches those who are most in need.
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Role of the Bank of Punjab
The Bank of Punjab (BoP) has been chosen as the financial service provider for the Himmat Card program. The bank will manage the transfer of funds to eligible individuals. The Social Welfare Department will provide the necessary data on eligible persons to the Bank of Punjab, which will then ensure that the funds are transferred to the correct accounts. Individuals must withdraw the funds within 180 days of the transfer, or the money will be returned to the government.
- Funds disbursed every 3 months
- Eligibility requires a special persons certificate
- Bank of Punjab handles the financial transactions
- 180-day withdrawal period for beneficiaries
Financial Allocation for the Program
The Punjab government has allocated Rs658.1 million for the implementation of the Himmat Card program. This significant investment demonstrates the government’s dedication to improving the lives of special persons in the province. The Planning and Development (P&D) Department has approved this budget, ensuring that the program is well-funded and able to reach all eligible individuals.
Implementation Phases
The Himmat Card program will be rolled out in phases, allowing for a smooth implementation process. This phased approach is designed to ensure that all eligible individuals are gradually included in the program. The government is committed to making sure that the program is efficient and reaches as many people as possible.
Conclusion
The ‘Himmat Card’ program is a significant step forward in providing financial support to special persons in Punjab. By increasing the assistance amount to Rs10,000 and ensuring a structured and phased implementation, the Punjab government aims to make a positive impact on the lives of 65,000 special persons. This initiative highlights the government’s commitment to inclusivity and support for vulnerable populations.
FAQs
Who is eligible to receive the Himmat Card?
Only those holding special persons certificates from their district or tehsil are eligible.
Can individuals receiving other government assistance apply?
No, individuals who receive financial help from other government programs, such as the Benazir Income Support Program, are not eligible.
Which bank will manage the Himmat Card transactions?
The Bank of Punjab will manage all financial transactions for the Himmat Card program.
When will the funds be disbursed?
The funds will be disbursed every three months to eligible individuals.