The Sindh government has approved a significant expansion of its social protection initiatives, aiming to strengthen support for vulnerable groups across the province. Under the Social Protection Program, it has been decided to provide Rs 3,000 quarterly to children from birth up to five years of age.
The decision was taken during the third meeting of the Sindh Social Protection Authority Board, chaired by Chief Minister Sindh Murad Ali Shah. The board reviewed and approved several key measures designed to broaden the scope of welfare programs.
New cash assistance for approximately 885,000 children approved
According to official details, the meeting sanctioned new cash assistance for approximately 885,000 children and rural women under the province’s social protection framework. A major Early Childhood Development project, valued at Rs 14 billion, was also approved.
Under the newly announced initiative, children from birth to five years of age will receive Rs. 3,000 every quarter. The program is aimed at improving early childhood nutrition, health, and development outcomes, particularly in underserved rural areas.
The Sindh Chief Minister stated that regular monitoring of child development, along with nutritional guidance and educational preparedness, will be ensured. He also said that rural women will receive monthly financial assistance during non-productive periods.
It was shared during the meeting that the purpose of the stabilisation fund is to protect rural women from debt burdens and food insecurity.
Mamata program activated in 22 districts
According to the briefing, the Mamata program has been activated in 22 districts, benefiting more than one million people. Various social protection programs are currently underway with a total budget of Rs. 56 billion.
The board also approved a new hybrid payment model to ensure timely payments to mothers. Full and partial payments for pregnancy and early childhood were also approved.
The meeting further decided to expand the program to underdeveloped areas of Karachi and Hyderabad, include seven more districts in the Mamata program, and establish “Mamata Desks” at district and taluka headquarters hospitals.
Additionally, the establishment of audit, human rights, legal, and investigation committees was approved to ensure transparency. A budget of Rs. 2.29 billion was also approved for the financial year 2026–27.
The Sindh Chief Minister emphasised that empowering vulnerable women and children is a top priority of the government, and that investing in health, nutrition, and financial stability is an investment in the future of the province.
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