Punjab Launches ‘Aghosh’ Program: Rs 23,000 Aid for Pregnant Women & Mothers to Improve Maternal & Child Health

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has officially introduced the ‘Aghosh’ program, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at supporting pregnant women and mothers of children under two years old with Rs 23,000 in financial assistance. This move marks a major step by the Punjab government to address maternal and child health issues in underprivileged areas.

According to an official statement from the Punjab government, the Aghosh program will initially be rolled out in 13 districts. These include Dera Ghazi Khan, Taunsa, Rajanpur, Layyah, Muzaffargarh, Kot Addu, Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan, Bahawalnagar, Bhakkar, Mianwali, Khushab, and Lodhran. The focus is on economically disadvantaged and remote regions where healthcare accessibility has long been a challenge.

Under this initiative, pregnant women will receive Rs 2,000 upon their first registration at either a public health center or Maryam Health Clinics. This first registration ensures the woman is part of the health system and eligible for further aid. Women will also be provided Rs 1,500 per medical visit, encouraging regular check-ups during pregnancy, with a maximum of Rs 6,000 in total for antenatal visits.

To support safe childbirth, Rs 4,000 will be awarded upon delivery at a registered healthcare facility. This step aims to encourage hospital births, reducing the risks associated with home deliveries.

Further financial support continues after childbirth. When the newborn receives their first medical check-up within 15 days, the mother will be given Rs 2,000. Additionally, once the birth certificate is registered at the health center, Rs 5,000 will be provided. To ensure proper immunization, Rs 4,000 is allocated in two installments of Rs 2,000 per stage of vaccination.

Financial aid will be distributed through authorized ‘Aghosh’ cash agents after each free medical examination. A dedicated toll-free helpline has also been launched to assist women with information and guidance about the program.

Speaking about the initiative, Maryam Nawaz emphasized the importance of healthcare for women and children, calling it a fundamental right. “No mother or child should suffer due to lack of resources,” she said, adding that public funds will be utilized to ensure access to both medical care and financial support in remote and impoverished areas. “A healthy mother means a healthy family,” she stated, highlighting the long-term impact of maternal health on society.

The Aghosh Program stands as a comprehensive welfare scheme, addressing both healthcare needs and financial challenges faced by women during pregnancy and post-delivery. It reflects a commitment to empowering women, improving child survival rates, and fostering a healthier, stronger Punjab.