The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has announced a new financial relief package for persons with disabilities, orphans and widows across the province.
The package includes monthly financial support, interest-free loans, scholarships and other welfare programs.
The initiatives were announced by Advisor to the Chief Minister on Social Welfare, Zakat and Ushr Malik Liaquat Ali Khan during a Khuli Kachehri for persons with disabilities in Swabi.
He said several new welfare schemes have also been added to the province’s current Annual Development Program.
Monthly financial support
The government will launch the Ehsaas Umeed Card Program this week. Under the program, 10,000 eligible persons with disabilities will receive Rs5,000 every month.
A separate card-based scheme will also provide Rs5,000 per month to eligible orphans and widows.
The government plans to send the money directly to the beneficiaries’ bank accounts. Registration services will also be provided at people’s homes to make the process easier.
Loans and scholarships
The provincial government has set aside Rs500 million for an interest-free loan program. The loans will help persons with disabilities start small businesses and become more financially independent.
The government has also launched the Ehsaas Scholarship Program with a budget of Rs700 million. It will help students with disabilities continue higher education and gain professional skills.
The relief package also includes a special quota for persons with disabilities under the provincial dowry fund. Immediate financial help will also be given to deserving people.
During the Swabi Khuli Kachehri, an elderly person with a disability was also given Rs50,000 in immediate financial assistance under the relief measures.