Punjab Announces Monthly Stipend for Women in Last AAP Budget Before Assembly Elections

The Punjab government has announced a monthly stipend scheme for eligible women as part of its latest state budget, presented ahead of the next Assembly elections. The budget, introduced by the Aam Aadmi Party government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, focuses on welfare initiatives, social schemes, and development programmes.

Monthly Financial Support for Women

One of the key highlights of the budget is a financial assistance scheme for women, under which eligible beneficiaries will receive a monthly stipend from the state government. The move is aimed at providing economic support to women and strengthening household finances, particularly among lower-income families.

Government officials said the scheme is expected to benefit a large number of women across rural and urban areas, helping them manage essential expenses.

Last Budget Before Assembly Polls

The budget is considered politically significant as it is the last full budget of the AAP government before the next Punjab Assembly elections. Political observers believe the announcement of welfare schemes, especially those focused on women, could play an important role in the upcoming electoral contest.

Rising State Debt Figures

Alongside welfare measures, the budget documents also highlighted the state’s financial situation. According to official estimates, Punjab’s effective outstanding debt for the financial year 2026–27 is projected to reach ₹4,42,604.16 crore.

This marks an increase compared to the revised estimate of ₹4,02,633.51 crore for FY 2025–26, reflecting the continuing fiscal pressure on the state’s finances.

Debt-to-GSDP Ratio

The government also projected that the effective outstanding debt-to-GSDP (Gross State Domestic Product) ratio will stand at 45.13% for FY 2026–27. The ratio is an important indicator used to measure the state’s debt burden relative to its economic output.

Focus on Welfare and Development

Despite concerns about rising debt, the state government said the budget aims to balance social welfare, economic growth, and infrastructure development. Officials emphasised that the schemes are designed to support vulnerable sections while boosting the overall economy.

The budget announcement has sparked political debate, with opposition parties questioning the state’s growing debt levels, while the ruling AAP government maintains that the initiatives are necessary to improve living standards and provide relief to citizens.