SWABI: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has announced a new financial relief package for persons with disabilities, widows and orphans across the province.
The initiatives were announced by Malik Liaquat Ali Khan, Adviser to the KP Chief Minister on Social Welfare, Zakat and Ushr. He shared details during a Khuli Kachehri held for differently-abled citizens in Swabi.
One of the key programmes is the Ehsaas Umeed Card, which is set to launch this week. The scheme aims to provide direct financial support to vulnerable groups.
Under the Ehsaas Umeed Card programme, 10,000 eligible persons with disabilities will receive a monthly stipend of Rs5,000. The provincial government has also introduced a separate card-based system for widows and orphans.
Eligible widows and orphans will also receive Rs5,000 every month. The government said payments will be transferred directly into beneficiaries’ bank accounts.
Officials said the new system is designed to reduce delays and eliminate unnecessary procedures. Registration services will also be provided at the applicants’ homes to make the process easier.
Alongside the Ehsaas Umeed Card, the provincial government has launched several other welfare initiatives under the current Annual Development Programme (ADP).
A major step is the introduction of an interest-free loan scheme worth Rs500 million. The programme is aimed at helping persons with disabilities start small businesses.
The government said the loans would support long-term economic independence. Beneficiaries will be able to establish sustainable sources of income through the scheme.
The province has also allocated Rs700 million for scholarships for differently-abled students. The scholarship programme aims to support higher education and skill development.
Officials said the fund would help remove financial barriers for students with special needs. More educational opportunities are expected through the initiative.
Additional welfare measures have also been announced. A special quota has been reserved for persons with disabilities under the provincial Dowry Fund.
The government said this step would reduce financial pressure on families during marriages. Immediate relief grants will also be provided in urgent cases.
During the Swabi event, an elderly disabled citizen received an immediate grant of Rs50,000. Officials said similar support would be available for humanitarian needs.
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The KP government stated that these programmes are intended to improve social protection and economic opportunities for vulnerable groups. The latest initiatives reflect efforts to provide direct assistance and promote long-term financial stability.
