In a significant push for social justice and skill development, Punjab Cabinet Minister Baljit Kaur inaugurated three major initiatives at the Dr Ambedkar Institute of Careers and Courses in Mohali on Friday. The event marked a multi-pronged approach towards infrastructure development, social empowerment, and vocational training for marginalized communities.
Phase-2 Renovation and Infrastructure Boost
The cornerstone of the event was the inauguration of the Phase-2 renovation works at the institute. Baljit Kaur, who holds the portfolio for Social Justice, Empowerment, and Minorities, laid the foundation stone for these crucial upgrades.
The Punjab government has sanctioned a substantial sum of ₹91 lakh for this phase. The funds will be strategically utilized for comprehensive civil repairs, waterproofing measures, concrete fixing, painting of the premises, and the installation of paver blocks. This investment aims to enhance the learning environment and infrastructure of the institute, ensuring it provides a world-class facility for its students.
Empowerment Through Incentives and Skill Development
Beyond infrastructure, the event had a strong focus on direct social empowerment. Minister Kaur presided over the distribution of incentives under the Inter-Caste Marriage Scheme. This state government initiative provides financial support to couples who enter into inter-caste marriages, promoting social harmony and breaking down caste barriers.
In another pivotal move for women's empowerment, the minister launched a new skill development course exclusively for girls belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC). This course is designed to equip young women from SC communities with market-relevant vocational skills, enhancing their employability and economic independence. The initiative underscores the government's commitment to creating tangible opportunities for the upliftment of marginalized sections.
A Holistic Approach to Social Justice
The simultaneous launch of these three initiatives reflects a holistic strategy. While the renovation addresses the physical and qualitative upgrade of an educational institution dedicated to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's ideals, the other two programs tackle social and economic dimensions of empowerment.
The Inter-Caste Marriage Scheme incentive directly challenges social prejudices, while the skill development course provides the tools for economic self-sufficiency. Held at the Dr Ambedkar Institute, the program symbolically and practically aligns with the constitutional values of equality and justice. This integrated effort by the Punjab government, spearheaded by Minister Baljit Kaur, is expected to create a lasting positive impact on the ground in Mohali and serve as a model for similar initiatives across the state.
