Mann Government Waives ₹67.84 Crore Loan for 4,727 SC Beneficiaries, Signals Commitment to Social Justice

National News: In a landmark decision aimed at uplifting economically weaker sections, the Aam Aadmi Party-led Punjab government has waived loans worth ₹67.84 crore for 4,727 beneficiaries belonging to the Scheduled Caste (SC) community. These loans were originally taken from the Punjab Scheduled Castes Land Development and Finance Corporation (PSCFC). Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the initiative reflects the government's commitment to social equity and economic support for underprivileged communities.

Loan Waiver Certificates Distributed in Fazilka

Providing detailed information, Fazilka MLA Narinder Pal Singh Sawna announced during a special function on Saturday that the scheme has been implemented across all districts of Punjab. In the Fazilka assembly constituency alone, 33 beneficiaries received loan waivers totaling ₹72,13,919, while 266 people across the Fazilka district benefited from a total waiver of ₹4.97 crore. MLA Sawna personally handed over Loan Waiver Certificates to the beneficiaries during the event.

All Loans Before March 31 2020 Waived

Sawna clarified that the waiver applies to all outstanding loans taken before March 31, 2020, under the PSCFC scheme. This move specifically targets the most financially burdened families who have been struggling to repay their loans due to various hardships.

Relief in the Wake of COVID and Economic Distress

Highlighting the rationale behind the move, MLA Sawna noted, “The COVID-19 pandemic and other ongoing economic challenges made it extremely difficult for many SC families to pay back their loans. The Punjab government has recognized their struggles and responded with compassion through this initiative, helping them restart their journey towards self-reliance.”

He added that the scheme offers not only financial relief but also restores a sense of dignity to those affected.

Our government is for the people

Praising Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s leadership, Sawna stated, “This is truly a people’s government. We are not just working for one segment of society—we are working for the welfare of all. The Scheduled Castes are an integral part of our social fabric, and it is our duty to remove the economic barriers that hold them back.”

Senior Officials in Attendance

The event was also attended by Fazilka SDM Virpal Kaur (PCS), PSCFC General Manager Talwinder Singh, and other senior administrative officers. Beneficiaries expressed visible gratitude and relief as the burden of long-standing debt was lifted.

A Strong Step Toward Social Justice

This loan waiver scheme stands as a strong pillar in the Punjab government’s vision of inclusive development and social justice. If similar initiatives continue, the state may indeed succeed in bringing marginalized communities into the mainstream, making economic equity a reality for all.