File No. SS-PB-WMC-001 · Punjab State Scheme · Dept. of Social Security & Women Empowerment

Ashirwad Scheme — formerly Shagun Scheme

₹51,000 credited directly to the family's bank account for the marriage of a daughter — easing the financial burden low-income Punjab families face at a daughter's wedding.

Note: if you're searching for "Shagun Scheme," Ashirwad is its current name — the scheme has been renamed and its amount raised over time, from ₹5,100 originally to ₹51,000 today.

What this scheme offers

Running since 26 January 2004, this scheme has seen its assistance amount rise substantially over the years — from ₹5,100 at launch, to ₹15,000, then ₹21,000, and now ₹51,000 per daughter, with coverage extended to up to two daughters from the same family. The full amount is transferred directly to the beneficiary's bank account to help cover wedding-related expenses, reducing reliance on informal loans that can trap low-income families in debt. In 2024-25 alone, the state disbursed over ₹301 crore under this scheme to SC and BC families across Punjab.

Who is eligible

  • Permanent resident of Punjab.
  • The girl must be at least 18 years old at the time of marriage.
  • Family annual income must not exceed ₹32,790.
  • Belongs to Scheduled Caste (SC), Backward Class (BC), or Economically Weaker Section (EWS); daughters of widows are also eligible.
  • Maximum of two daughters per family can be covered.

Documents required

  • Identity proof (Aadhaar card, Voter ID, or Passport)
  • Residence proof (ration card, utility bill, or domicile certificate)
  • Income certificate showing family income below ₹32,790
  • Caste certificate (for SC/BC applicants)
  • Marriage certificate or proof of upcoming marriage
  • Bank account details

How to apply

  1. Visit the Ashirwad Punjab portal and collect the application form, or download the PDF.
  2. Fill in the family, income, and marriage details accurately.
  3. Attach the required documents — identity, residence, income, caste, and marriage proof.
  4. Submit the completed form in person at your local Social Security office, and collect a tracking receipt.
  5. The application is verified before approval; once approved, the ₹51,000 is credited directly to the family's bank account.
  6. If your application shows an error or you face issues with the online profile, visit your local Social Security office in person rather than relying solely on the portal.