Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has announced that the state government will present its fifth Budget on March 8 in the Legislative Assembly, a date that coincides with International Women’s Day. The announcement was made during his visit to Gujarat along with AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal.
The unusual scheduling of the Budget on a Sunday and on International Women’s Day has sparked speculation that the government may announce the rollout of its long-promised ₹1,000 monthly financial assistance scheme for women above 18 years of age.
The promise was first made ahead of the 2022 Assembly elections, with the party assuring direct financial support to women. However, nearly four years later, the scheme is yet to be implemented.
Officials said the financial burden of the scheme could range from ₹6,000 crore annually if optional to nearly ₹10,000 crore if extended to all eligible beneficiaries. The Finance Department is reportedly considering phased or monthly disbursements to manage the fiscal impact.
Punjab, which currently faces a debt burden of around ₹5 lakh crore, is under financial pressure, making the implementation of the scheme a significant policy and political decision ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections.
The government has said the upcoming Budget will remain focused on public welfare and inclusive development across all sections of society in Punjab.
