Acting as parens patriae of COVID-19 victims, Punjab Government is all set to extend a helping hand by providing Rs 1,500 per month as social security pension, along with free education up to graduation, for all those children orphaned in the COVID pandemic, as well as the families that have lost their breadwinning member.

Beginning July 1, this year, the Government will ensure free Education in government institutions, for such children as well as children belonging to families that have lost their breadwinner to COVID.

The Chief Minister, announcing the decision, termed it the states duty to become the foster parents of the children who have lost both their parents in the unprecedented pandemic.

Affected persons would also be eligible for grant of Rs 51,000 under Ashirwaad Scheme with effect from July 1, and would be entitled to free ration under the State Smart Ration Card Scheme and coverage under the Sarbat Sehat Bima Yojana.