Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has unveiled the “Dhee Rani Program,” a pioneering initiative aimed at supporting financially underprivileged families in arranging dignified weddings for their daughters. The program’s inaugural event, held in Lahore, witnessed the union of 51 couples, including five Christian couples, in a grand and heartwarming ceremony. This initiative is a bold step by the Punjab Government to promote social harmony, equality, and compassion.
Objective of the Dhee Rani Program
The “Dhee Rani Program” is designed to alleviate the financial challenges faced by families in arranging weddings for their daughters. The primary objectives include:
- Financial Assistance: Offering monetary support to help cover wedding expenses.
- Unity Promotion: Bringing together diverse communities through inclusive mass wedding events.
- Emotional Relief: Easing the emotional and financial stress for parents by ensuring their daughters are married with dignity.
By addressing economic barriers, the program aims to create opportunities for families to celebrate weddings without undue financial strain.
Benefits Provided to Newly Married Couples
Under the program, newlywed couples receive comprehensive support to kickstart their married life with stability and dignity. These benefits include:
- Financial Gift: Each couple is provided with PKR 100,000 through the “Dhee Rani Card.”
- Essential Dowry Items: The government gifts couples practical household items such as:
- A bed and mattress.
- Kitchen utensils.
- Dinner sets and other necessary items.
- A Memorable Wedding Ceremony: A well-organized event ensures that the couples can celebrate their union in the presence of family, friends, and community members.
This initiative reflects the Punjab Government’s commitment to empowering families and fostering financial and emotional stability among newlyweds.
Highlights of the Launch Event in Lahore
The grand launch event in Lahore was attended by 51 couples who exchanged vows in a collective wedding ceremony. Key highlights include:
- Interfaith Harmony: The inclusion of five Christian couples emphasized the program’s inclusive nature, celebrating diversity and unity.
- Prayers and Blessings: Religious leaders like Dr. Mufti Muhammad Ramzan Sialvi and Bishop Nadeem Kamran offered blessings to the newlyweds.
- Government Support: Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz played a pivotal role, symbolizing her dedication to the cause by actively engaging with the families present.
- Community Engagement: Families from all backgrounds joined the celebrations, promoting a sense of solidarity and mutual respect.
The event was more than a marriage ceremony; it was a statement of unity and social equality.
The “Dhee Rani Card” Initiative
Central to the program is the “Dhee Rani Card,” an innovative approach to ensure direct financial assistance to the beneficiaries. Key features of the card include:
- Direct Transfer: PKR 100,000 is deposited directly into the bride’s account, ensuring ease of access.
- Flexibility in Usage: The funds can be used for wedding-related expenses or other immediate household needs.
- Financial Security: This initiative provides a safety net for the couple as they embark on their new journey together.
Application Process for the Program
Eligible families can apply to benefit from the program through a streamlined process:
- Online Registration: Submit applications via the official government website.
- In-Person Submission: Families can also visit the local Deputy Director Social Welfare office to submit their forms.
- Required Documentation: Applicants must provide:
- Verified NADRA identity cards of the bride, groom, and their parents or guardians.
- Proof of financial need, if required by the authorities.
This simple and accessible process ensures that deserving families can easily benefit from the initiative.
Government Support and Vision
The Punjab Government, led by Maryam Nawaz, has prioritized addressing social inequalities through programs like “Dhee Rani.” At the launch, the Chief Minister expressed her emotional connection to the initiative, likening herself to a mother figure for the brides. Her heartfelt speech underlined the government’s resolve to uplift families and promote communal harmony.
Conclusion
The “Dhee Rani Program” is more than just a government initiative; it is a beacon of hope for countless families struggling to provide a dignified start to their daughters’ married lives. By offering financial aid, organizing inclusive wedding ceremonies, and fostering interfaith harmony, the program sets a precedent for social welfare and unity in Pakistan. This transformative initiative not only empowers underprivileged families but also strengthens the bonds of community and compassion.
FAQs
Q1: What is the primary goal of the “Dhee Rani Program”?
The program aims to assist underprivileged families in arranging respectable weddings for their daughters through financial and material support.
Q2: How much financial assistance is provided under the program?
Each couple receives PKR 100,000 through the “Dhee Rani Card.”
Q3: What items are included in the dowry support?
The couples are gifted household essentials such as a bed, mattress, dinner set, and kitchen utensils.
Q4: Is the program inclusive of all communities?
Yes, the program emphasizes unity and inclusivity by involving couples from diverse religious backgrounds, including Christians.
Q5: How can families apply for the program?
Eligible families can register online or visit the local Social Welfare office with required documentation to apply.