Ludhiana, Punjab — Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has said that the greatness of any society is not measured by its economic prosperity alone but by the compassion it shows towards its most vulnerable citizens. A truly progressive society, he remarked, is one that stands beside the weak, the disadvantaged and those in need, ensuring that no individual is left behind in the journey of development.
Addressing the 346th Monthly Widow Ration and Assistance Distribution Ceremony at Gyan Sthal Mandir in Ludhiana, the Chief Minister praised the role of social and voluntary organisations in carrying forward the ideals of public service, social harmony and Antyodaya—the philosophy of uplifting the last person in society. On the occasion, he announced a grant of ₹11 lakh for the Gyan Sthal Mandir Seva Society, recognising its long-standing contribution to humanitarian causes.
The event highlighted an extraordinary social welfare initiative that has continued uninterrupted for nearly three decades. What began as a modest effort to support widowed women and vulnerable families has gradually evolved into a large-scale movement dedicated to social welfare, empowerment and community service.
Paying tribute to the late freedom fighter, journalist and social leader Lala Jagat Narain, Saini described him as a symbol of patriotism, national unity and selfless service. He said Lala Jagat Narain devoted his life to strengthening the nation’s social fabric and ultimately made the supreme sacrifice in defence of the country’s unity and integrity. According to the Chief Minister, organisations such as the Gyan Sthal Mandir Seva Society and the Lala Jagat Narain Nishkam Sewa Samiti are carrying forward that legacy through their sustained commitment to public welfare.
The Chief Minister noted that the service mission, initiated in 1997 by the late Jagdish Bajaj, has grown into one of the region’s most enduring examples of community-led welfare. Maintaining uninterrupted support for widowed women and disadvantaged families for 346 consecutive months, he said, reflects an exceptional level of dedication and social commitment rarely witnessed in voluntary initiatives.
He also commended the organisation for dispatching its 64th relief truck carrying humanitarian aid for families affected by terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, describing the effort as an example of national solidarity that transcends regional boundaries.
Highlighting the scale of the organisation’s work, Saini said more than 165,000 widowed and economically vulnerable families have received ration assistance through the initiative over the years. During the COVID-19 pandemic, when many communities faced unprecedented hardships, volunteers continued their outreach efforts, delivering essential supplies directly to households despite difficult circumstances.
Beyond immediate relief measures, the organisation has increasingly focused on long-term empowerment. According to figures shared at the event, over 385 tricycles have been distributed to persons with disabilities, while more than 115,000 women have received sewing machines to help them generate sustainable livelihoods. In addition, over 25,000 children have been provided computer education, equipping them with skills necessary for future opportunities in an increasingly digital economy.
The Chief Minister observed that the institution’s work extends far beyond charity. By promoting skill development, self-employment and educational opportunities, it is helping individuals achieve economic independence and social dignity. Such initiatives, he said, create lasting social transformation rather than temporary relief.
Turning to government initiatives, Saini reiterated Haryana’s commitment to women’s empowerment and social welfare. He said the state government has introduced a range of programmes aimed at improving the economic, educational and social status of women. Widow pension beneficiaries in Haryana currently receive ₹3,200 per month, while eligible women are being supported under the Deendayal Lado Lakshmi Yojana with monthly financial assistance of ₹2,100.
He further highlighted the Har Ghar-Har Grihini scheme, under which domestic LPG cylinders are being provided at subsidised rates, along with programmes such as the Chief Minister Marriage Shagun Scheme, the Lakhpati Didi initiative and various self-help group empowerment projects designed to enhance women’s financial independence.
Education, he said, remains central to long-term empowerment. Referring to the state’s efforts to expand access to higher education, Saini noted that Haryana has established 81 new colleges in recent years, including 31 institutions dedicated specifically to female students. The government is also providing free education for girls up to the postgraduate level, a step aimed at creating greater opportunities and reducing barriers to higher learning.
Reflecting on the broader purpose of public life, the Chief Minister said politics should not be viewed merely as a means to attain power. Instead, he argued, its true purpose lies in serving society, strengthening national interests and improving the lives of those standing at the margins of development.
The widow assistance programme in Ludhiana, he said, represents the practical application of the Antyodaya philosophy envisioned by leaders who believed that development must reach every citizen, particularly those most in need. Such social organisations play a critical role in complementing government efforts by nurturing compassion, strengthening community bonds and inspiring collective responsibility.
As India continues its pursuit of inclusive growth, the Chief Minister concluded, initiatives rooted in service, dignity and social justice will remain essential to building a more equitable and humane society.
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