93 children given aid under sponsorship scheme in Ludhiana

Stating that the Punjab Government was committed to the welfare of economically disadvantaged and vulnerable children and the protection of their rights, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Sakshi Sawhney said 93 beneficiaries were given financial aid under the Sponsorship and Foster Care Scheme.

Under the sponsorship programme, children belonging to widowed, divorced or single mothers, orphans, specially abled, and other vulnerable situations are given Rs 4,000 a month until they turn 18. This financial aid helps them continue their education.

The DC stated that the scheme was part of Mission Vatsalya programme, aimed at implementing the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, to ensure proper care, protection, development, treatment, and social rehabilitation of children living in difficult conditions.

The scheme was being implemented under the Aadhaar-based direct benefit transfer (DBT) system.

The children from families with an annual income of up to Rs 96,000 in urban areas and Rs 72,000 in rural areas were eligible under the scheme. Information about the scheme and eligibility criteria can be sought from the District Child Protection Unit or Child Welfare Committee of the district concerned. Applications can be submitted accordingly.