In a major push to promote self-employment and economic empowerment among Scheduled Caste (SC) youth, the Punjab Government has distributed tool kits to 351 Industrial Training Institute (ITI) trainees across five districts of the state.
Punjab Cabinet Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur said the initiative aims to strengthen self-reliance among SC youth by equipping them with essential tools to start their own ventures and earn a sustainable livelihood.
Tool Kits Distributed Across 5 Districts
The distribution took place during a district-level function organized at Malout by the Department of Social Justice, Empowerment and Minorities on the occasion of the 136th birth anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.
A total of 351 trainees from 9 ITIs in Sri Muktsar Sahib, Bathinda, Faridkot, Ferozepur, and Fazilka districts benefited from the scheme.
Sri Muktsar Sahib – 82 trainees
Bathinda – 64 trainees
Faridkot – 67 trainees
Fazilka – 87 trainees
Ferozepur – 51 trainees
The tool kits were provided in trades such as Electrician, Refrigeration & Air Conditioning, and Plumber, enabling trainees to start self-employment ventures.
Focus on SC Welfare and Self-Reliance
Dr. Baljit Kaur emphasized that under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government is committed to uplifting Scheduled Castes and improving their socio-economic conditions.
She stated that multiple welfare schemes are being implemented to ensure that beneficiaries have access to resources for sustainable employment and entrepreneurship.
Tribute to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
Paying tribute to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the Minister highlighted his contributions towards social justice, equality, and empowerment of marginalized communities.She said, “Following Baba Sahib’s ideals is the true way to honor his legacy, especially in ensuring dignity and equal opportunities for all.”
Additional Benefits: Laptops, Sewing Machines & Loan Camp
Apart from tool kits:
Laptops were distributed to school-going girls
Sewing machines were given to needy beneficiaries
The Minister also announced that a loan distribution camp will soon be organized to further support SC youth in starting their own businesses.
Push for Sports Infrastructure in Punjab
During her visit, Dr. Baljit Kaur inaugurated a newly constructed volleyball ground in Malout, built at a cost of ₹10 lakh from her discretionary fund through the Panchayati Raj Department.She said that the government is actively developing playgrounds, mini parks, and sports stadiums across rural and urban areas to encourage youth participation in sports and discourage drug abuse.
Notably, sports stadiums are being developed in 24 villages of the constituency.
Dignitaries Present
Prominent attendees included:
Jashan Brar, Chairman, Market Committee Malout
Jagmohan Singh Mann
Gurmeet Singh Brar, District Social Justice Officer.