The Punjab government has proposed allocating more than Rs4.95 billion for women’s development and empowerment in the next fiscal year, reflecting a broader strategy aimed at increasing employment, entrepreneurship and economic independence among women.
The proposed budget includes funding for daycare centres, business incubation facilities, digital skills training, working women’s hostels and several new initiatives designed to expand opportunities for women across the province.
According to budget proposals for the upcoming fiscal year, more than Rs4.95 billion has been earmarked for women’s development and empowerment initiatives in Punjab.
The government has also proposed allocating Rs884.4 million specifically for the women’s development sector as part of its broader social development agenda.
Officials say the proposed funding is intended to support programs that improve economic opportunities, workplace participation and social support systems for women.
Daycare centres to support working women
A significant portion of the proposed funding has been allocated to childcare facilities. The budget includes Rs311 million for the Punjab Chief Minister’s Daycare Centres Project.
The initiative aims to establish daycare centres across Punjab, making it easier for working women to balance professional responsibilities with childcare needs.
Officials believe expanded daycare services will help increase women’s participation in the workforce.
Working women’s hostels
The government has also proposed Rs173 million for the reconstruction of the Working Women’s Hostel in Gujranwala. In addition, a new plan is under consideration to improve facilities in 17 working women’s hostels across Punjab.
The initiative is intended to provide safer and more comfortable accommodation for women pursuing employment opportunities away from their hometowns.
Economic independence for rural women
The proposed budget places special emphasis on women’s economic empowerment in rural areas. A total of Rs160 million has been allocated for a textile sector program designed to promote economic independence among rural women.
Officials say the program will create income-generating opportunities and strengthen women’s role in local economic activity.
To encourage entrepreneurship, the Punjab government has proposed allocating Rs106 million for the establishment of women’s business incubation centres. These centres are expected to provide guidance, training and support to women looking to start or expand businesses.
The government has also highlighted a broader strategy focused on increasing employment, business growth and entrepreneurial opportunities for women.
Digital transformation and skills development
The budget proposal includes Rs28 million for the digitalization of the Punjab Women Development Department. Alongside administrative modernization, the government plans to expand digital skills training through the “eLearn, She Earns” program.
Officials say promoting digital literacy and technology-based skills remains a priority for women’s economic empowerment in the modern economy.
New programs under consideration
Several new initiatives are also being considered as part of Punjab’s women empowerment agenda. These include a Women’s Employment Exchange Program aimed at connecting women with job opportunities and an awareness campaign focused on women’s rights and economic participation.
The government is also proposing the launch of an ambassador program for university students to encourage leadership, engagement and advocacy among young women.
According to officials, Punjab has prepared a comprehensive strategy to promote women’s growth, employment and business opportunities.
Special focus is being placed on projects that increase women’s access to entrepreneurship, skills development and financial independence.
The proposed budget reflects what the government describes as a major initiative to strengthen women economically and create a more inclusive development framework across the province.
.jpg)
