The Punjab government has approved major changes to the Dhee Rani Program, a marriage support scheme for eligible daughters from low-income families. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has not only expanded the number of beneficiaries but also doubled the financial assistance provided under the program. These steps are aimed at easing the financial burden on families at the time of their daughters’ marriage.
Higher Quota for Dhee Rani Beneficiaries
Under the latest decision, the annual quota of the Dhee Rani Program has been raised from 3,000 to 5,000 beneficiaries. This means that an additional 2,000 eligible brides will be able to receive financial support in the coming financial year. The expansion has been formally endorsed by the Project Steering Committee, which oversees the planning and execution of the scheme.
By widening the coverage, the government aims to reach more underprivileged families across Punjab’s 36 districts. The move is expected to help those who struggle to meet basic wedding expenses, especially in areas where incomes are low and inflation has increased the cost of essential items.
Marriage Grant Doubled to Rs. 200,000
Another key decision approved by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz is the increase in the marriage grant from Rs. 100,000 to Rs. 200,000 per beneficiary. Doubling the support amount is expected to give families more room to manage essential wedding costs such as household items, basic furniture, clothing and other necessary expenses related to the ceremony.
For many low-income households, arranging even a simple wedding can be stressful and debt-inducing. The revised grant aims to reduce the need for borrowing from relatives, informal lenders or costly loans, allowing families to rely instead on a structured and transparent government scheme.
Budget, Payments, and Media Campaign Plan
For the financial year 2025–26, the Punjab Finance Department has earmarked Rs. 1.70 billion for the Dhee Rani Program. This allocation covers the increased number of beneficiaries as well as the higher per-marriage grant. The Steering Committee has approved the revised financial framework to ensure that the program remains within the sanctioned budget.
However, vendor payments worth Rs. 660 million, linked mainly to past media campaigns and promotional activities, could not be adjusted within the new budget. Officials have clarified that these outstanding bills will be cleared during the current financial year, separate from the fresh allocation for 2025–26.
How Funds Will Be Spent Across Punjab
The Finance Department has instructed that all advertising for the Dhee Rani Program be routed through the Directorate General of Public Relations (DGPR). Around Rs. 50 million has been estimated for branding and awareness activities at Dhee Rani ceremonies across all 36 districts of Punjab, ensuring that deserving families know about the scheme and its application process.
In addition, Rs. 8 million has been earmarked for Bank of Punjab (BOP) cards that will be used to disburse funds for 5,000 marriages during the 2025–26 financial year. Using bank cards helps create a transparent payment trail, reduces chances of misuse and allows beneficiaries to withdraw or spend the money in a secure and controlled manner.
Completing the Program Within Approved Budget
The Finance Department has turned down a proposal for an additional Rs. 223 million, making it clear that the Dhee Rani Program will have to be completed within the approved Rs. 1.70 billion envelope. This reflects the government’s effort to balance social welfare spending with broader fiscal discipline.
Despite these limits, the combination of a higher quota and a doubled grant amount signals that the provincial government is prioritising support for young women and their families. If implemented effectively, the expanded Dhee Rani Program could provide meaningful financial relief at a critical stage of life and strengthen social protection measures for vulnerable households in Punjab.
