Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif recently launched the Punjab Dhee Rani Programme, a mass wedding initiative aimed at helping underprivileged couples. Under this program, each newly-married couple will receive PKR 100,000 as a financial gift, distributed through ATM cards provided by the government. The programme aims to support deserving brides across Punjab with both monetary and essential household items.
Unique Features of the Dhee Rani Programme
The Punjab Dhee Rani Programme offers several features to ensure that each bride is well-supported:
1. Monetary Gift
- Each bride will receive PKR 100,000 as a cash gift (Salami).
- The money can be withdrawn using an ATM card provided by the government.
2. Wedding Gifts by CM
Each bride will receive a dowry package worth PKR 206,000, which includes:
- Holy Quran
- Prayer mat
- Wooden double bed with mattress
- Mirror
- Dinner set, and more.
3. Collective Wedding Ceremonies
- The program will arrange mass wedding events for around 3,000 underprivileged girls across Punjab.
- Food will be served to 20 guests for each couple, along with gifts like furniture, household utensils, and clothes.
Eligibility Criteria for the Dhee Rani Programme
To apply for the program, the bride must meet the following requirements:
- Age: 18 to 40 years.
- Status: Must be destitute, an orphan, a person with disabilities (PWD), or the daughter of a PWD.
- Residence: Must have a domicile in Punjab.
- Application: The bride, her parents, or guardians can apply.
- Affidavit: Required to confirm the bride’s unmarried status and willingness to participate in the collective ceremony.
Selection Process for Dhee Rani Scheme
- If the number of applicants exceeds the available slots, an electronic balloting system will be used to determine the selected candidates.
- Verification: Special teams will verify applicants at their homes to ensure transparency.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Cash Gift | PKR 100,000 (withdrawable via ATM) |
| Dowry Package | Worth PKR 206,000, includes essential household items |
| Eligibility Age | 18 to 40 years |
| Application Deadline | 5th November |
| Verification Process | Home verification by special teams |
| Selection Method | Electronic balloting (if applications exceed slots) |
How to Apply for the Dhee Rani Programme?
Applicants can submit their requests online by visiting cmp.punjab.gov.pk. A dedicated helpline, 1312, has also been set up to assist with inquiries regarding the programme.
Last Date to Apply
- 5th November is the last date for submitting applications for this programme.
CM’s Statement on Housing Programme
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif also discussed the progress of the Apni Chhat Apna Ghar housing programme. She mentioned that construction under this scheme has already begun across various districts. The government has ensured that the first installment of loans has been successfully distributed, enabling people to start building their homes. The release of the second installment will continue as scheduled.
Programme Monitoring
- Dashboard Monitoring: CM Maryam Nawaz will oversee the housing program via a dedicated dashboard.
- Focal Persons: Assistant commissioners have been appointed as focal persons in each district to help applicants.
- Supervision: Provincial Minister Bilal Yasin is tasked with monitoring the programme in the field.
During a briefing, CM Maryam Nawaz was informed that over 550,000 people had visited the portal, and 450,000 applications had been received.
Conclusion
The Punjab Dhee Rani Programme, initiated by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, is a significant step towards supporting underprivileged brides across the province. By offering a combination of financial aid and essential household items, the programme aims to ease the financial burden on families and ensure a dignified start to married life for deserving couples. The government’s transparent selection process, combined with dedicated support through online portals and helplines, reflects a commitment to uplifting those in need.