The Government of Punjab has always aimed to improve the quality of life for its citizens, especially those from marginalized and underserved communities. In 2025, it introduced a game-changing welfare initiative known as the Aaghosh Program, aimed specifically at supporting pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and mothers with children under two years of age. Through this program, eligible women can receive up to PKR 23,000 in financial aid, helping them access essential healthcare services for themselves and their newborns.
What is the Aaghosh Program?
The Aaghosh Program is part of the broader Punjab Human Capital Investment Project (PHCIP). This initiative focuses on improving human development indicators in Punjab by addressing critical issues such as maternal health, child immunization, and birth registration. The main objective of the Aaghosh Program is to encourage women to receive timely medical care during pregnancy, deliver in safe health facilities, and complete their children’s immunization schedules. It also promotes early registration of newborns with NADRA.
Who Can Apply?
To benefit from the Aaghosh Program, applicants must fulfill the following criteria:
- The applicant must be pregnant, currently breastfeeding, or have a child under two.
- She must have a valid CNIC (Computerized National Identity Card) issued by NADRA.
- The applicant should be a resident of one of the 13 designated districts where the program is being implemented. These districts include:
- Bahawalpur
- Rahim Yar Khan
- Muzaffargarh
- Rajanpur
- Layyah
- Khushab
- Bhakkar
- Mianwali
- Bahawalnagar
- Kot Addu
- Lodhran
- Dera Ghazi Khan
- Taunsa
This targeted approach ensures that support reaches women in areas with high maternal and child mortality rates and limited access to healthcare.
How to Apply for the Aaghosh Program
Applying for the Aaghosh Program is a straightforward process designed to be accessible for rural and underprivileged women. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Head to the closest government hospital. This institution could be a Basic Health Unit (BHU), a Rural Health Center (RHC), the Tehsil Headquarters Hospital (THQ), or the District Headquarters Hospital (DHQ).
Provide Required Documentation:
- Your original CNIC is required.
- A birth record for a child or proof of pregnancy is required.
- A registered mobile phone number for communication.
- Use the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) System to sign up: You can send your information through the facility’s Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system with the help of a Lady Health Visitor (LHV) or another approved medical staff member.
- Receive Confirmation and Instructions: After successful registration, you will receive SMS notifications or instructions directly from the facility regarding your eligibility and schedule for follow-up visits.
Financial Assistance Structure
The PKR 23,000 financial support is not given in a lump sum but is distributed in several phases, linked to health-related milestones. Here’s how the payments are structured:
- At a government health center, the first fee to sign up is PKR 2,000.
- 6,000 PKR for all four prenatal visits in the third, sixth, seventh, and ninth months of pregnancy. Each visit costs 1,500 PKR.
- When the baby is born in a government hospital or health center, we will take PKR 4,000.
- The first health checkup after birth, which costs PKR 2,000, must be completed within 15 days of the baby’s birth.
- PKR 2,000 each for the first and second measles vaccinations (usually given at 9 and 15 months of age), totaling PKR 4,000.
- Once you register the birth with NADRA and send in the B-Form (Birth Certificate/CRC) through the EMR system, you will receive PKR 5,000.
Importance of the Program
This initiative does not merely offer financial aid. It is a crucial step toward improving the health of moms and children in Punjab. By encouraging regular medical checkups and ensuring institutional deliveries, the program significantly reduces risks associated with childbirth and early childhood illnesses. It also supports early child registration, which is crucial for future access to education, healthcare, and public services.
Helpline and Support
If a beneficiary needs help or has questions, they can call the Social Protection Helpline at 1221. Trained representatives are available 24/7 to assist you with queries related to eligibility, registration status, or payment schedules.
You can also visit the official PHCIP website for detailed information and updates.
Final Thoughts
The Aaghosh Program 2025 is a bold and forward-thinking plan that recognizes the important role women play in building healthy communities. By financially supporting mothers during pregnancy and early child-rearing years, the government not only empowers families but also invests in the future of Punjab. If you or someone you know is eligible, please consider visiting your nearest health facility to register and access these essential benefits.
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