Dr. Baljit Kaur Highlights Punjab’s Reform Agenda
Chandigarh– Punjab has put forward bold reforms during the Viksit Bharat 2047 consultative process, with Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur stressing the state’s commitment to education, social justice, and child welfare.
Commending Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann’s leadership, Dr. Kaur said Punjab is setting new benchmarks for inclusive governance. She added that the state’s recommendations, if adopted nationally, could drive systemic change across India.
The minister expressed gratitude to Union Minister Dr. Barinder Kumar and colleagues from other states for providing Punjab a platform to share its vision.
Push for ‘One Nation, One Scholarship’
Dr. Kaur strongly advocated the concept of “One Nation, One Scholarship” to streamline student support nationwide. She proposed a pan-India online portal that would cut delays in verification, especially for students seeking admissions outside their home states.
She also called for greater awareness of post-matric scholarship schemes and demanded a uniform income criterion to ensure fairness. Specifically, she urged the Centre to raise the income ceiling for SC scholarships from ₹2.5 lakh to ₹5 lakh, so more students can pursue higher education.
“These reforms can prevent talented students from being denied opportunities,” Dr. Kaur emphasized.
Upgraded Model Village Scheme and Social Justice
Highlighting rural development, Dr. Kaur recommended an overhaul of the Adarsh Gram Yojana (Model Village Scheme). She proposed increasing allocations from ₹20 lakh to ₹1 crore per village, ensuring comprehensive growth, particularly for Scheduled Caste communities.
The minister also raised concerns over honour killings, urging the Centre to enact a stringent national law against discrimination and violence related to inter-caste marriages.
Additionally, she pressed for an increase in financial assistance under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, suggesting higher compensation for victims of murder, rape, and other atrocities.
Sustainable Livelihood and Child Welfare Reforms
Dr. Kaur highlighted the need to modernize livelihood training, moving beyond conventional tailoring and beauty courses. Instead, she suggested programs in nursing and elderly care, which offer sustainable career opportunities.
Punjab’s achievements in eradicating child begging were also presented as a model for the nation. She noted that over 700 children had been rescued, with DNA tests conducted to identify exploiters. These children were rehabilitated into schools, ensuring long-term welfare.
“Today, you will not find a child begging on Punjab’s streets. This model must be adopted across India,” she said.
Dr. Kaur further recommended that hostels for SC/BC students should avoid caste-based labels, creating an inclusive environment for holistic development.
Punjab’s Vision for a Just and Inclusive India
Dr. Baljit Kaur concluded by reiterating Punjab’s resolve to lead the nation in progressive reforms. “Through these suggestions, Punjab has once again demonstrated its commitment to education, social justice, and child welfare,” she said.
Experts believe these recommendations could influence national policies, especially as India frames its long-term roadmap for 2047.