Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today announced a major initiative to empower eligible women in Himachal Pradesh. Women registered with the Himachal Pradesh Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board will now receive financial assistance of up to four lakh rupees for constructing their own houses. This initiative aims to support widows, disabled women, and ‘Ekal Naris,’ helping them fulfill their dream of owning a home.
Key Highlights of the Scheme
- Financial Assistance Breakdown:
The scheme will provide Rs. 3 lakh for building the house and an additional Rs. 1 lakh for essential facilities, such as a kitchen, toilet, and bathroom. - Eligibility Criteria:
To qualify for this assistance, women must be registered with the Board, have completed at least 90 workdays in the last 12 months, and have an annual income of less than Rs. 2.50 lakh. - Application Process:
Women can apply for the scheme through their respective Labour Officer by submitting the necessary supporting documents. Upon approval, the financial assistance will be directly transferred to the beneficiary’s bank account.
Comprehensive Welfare Schemes for Women and Underprivileged Sections
Chief Minister Sukhu also outlined the Board’s other welfare initiatives, which include financial aid for marriage, maternity benefits, educational support, medical care, pensions, and assistance for cremation expenses, among others. These initiatives aim to uplift the underprivileged and ensure their well-being.
New Schemes for the Welfare of Children and Orphans
The state government is also launching a new scheme to cover higher education expenses for the children of widows, up to the age of 27. In a remarkable move, Himachal Pradesh has become the first state in India to introduce a legislation ensuring comprehensive care for orphaned children. Under this initiative, over 6,000 orphans have been adopted as ‘Children of the State,’ with the government committed to supporting their welfare and education to help them become self-sufficient.
