The Punjab government launched the Himmat Card Scheme 2024 to provide financial assistance to persons with disabilities (PWDs). This scheme ensures they receive a quarterly stipend and access to essential services, allowing them to live more independently. Here’s a comprehensive guide on How to Apply for Punjab Govt Himmat Card Scheme 2024, who qualifies, and what steps are involved.
What is the Himmat Card Scheme?
The Punjab government offers the Himmat Card as a special service to PWDs, providing a stipend of PKR 10,500 per quarter. The primary aim is to improve the quality of life for these individuals by providing financial support and other services, including easier access to healthcare, assistive devices, and financial independence.
Eligibility Criteria for the Himmat Card
To qualify for the Himmat Card, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Certified Disability: You must be certified by the Social Welfare Department of Punjab as a person with disabilities (PWD).
- Unemployment: You must not hold any employment in government or private sector jobs.
- No Recent Financial Aid: Applicants cannot have received recent financial support from other government programs, such as BISP (Benazir Income Support Program) or Bait-ul-Maal.
- PMT Score: The Proxy Means Test (PMT) score, which assesses an individual’s financial condition, must be 45 or below.
- Updated Information: You must update personal data, including your CNIC, address, contact information, and educational details, in the Disabled Persons Management Information System (DPMIS).
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for the Himmat Card
If you meet the eligibility criteria, follow these simple steps to apply for the Himmat Card:
Step 1: Obtain a Disability Certificate
Your first task is to get a Disability Certificate from the Social Welfare Department of Punjab. This certificate confirms your eligibility and is mandatory for the application.
Step 2: Check Your PMT Score
Ensure that your PMT score is 45 or lower. This score will be checked through the BISP or other government databases. If unsure, you can check it by contacting your local social welfare office.
Step 3: Update Your Personal Information
Ensure you update all your personal details, including your CNIC, address, mobile number, education, and work experience, in the DPMIS. The system tracks eligible PWDs and guarantees your registration for future assistance.
Step 4: Visit the Social Welfare Office
Once you have all the necessary documents, including your Disability Certificate, visit your local District Social Welfare Office or a designated helpdesk. These offices are set up to assist PWDs in completing their applications for the Himmat Card.
Documents you need:
- CNIC
- Disability Certificate
- PMT Score or relevant financial status document
Step 5: Field Verification
After submitting your application, the Social Welfare Department will send a team to verify your information. This step ensures that only those who genuinely need assistance receive it. Verification can take a few weeks.
Step 6: Open a Bank Account
After the approval of your application, you must open a bank account with the Bank of Punjab. The government has established camp sites at tehsil levels to assist beneficiaries in opening bank accounts quickly and easily.
Step 7: Receive Your ATM Card
Once you register successfully, the system will issue you an ATM card. This card will allow you to withdraw your quarterly stipend of PKR 10,500 from any Bank of Punjab ATM or partner bank without extra fees.
Important Points to Remember
- Withdraw your funds within 180 days, or the state will reclaim them.
- The government distributes the Himmat Card in phases. In the first phase, 40,000 individuals will receive their cards, followed by 25,000 more in the next.
Benefits of the Himmat Card
Apart from the quarterly stipend, the Himmat Card provides the following benefits:
- Financial Independence: Recipients can manage their funds directly via ATM withdrawals.
- Access to Healthcare: You can use the card to access government-supported healthcare services.
- Increased Social Inclusion: With financial support and access to assistive devices, PWDs can lead more independent lives.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is eligible for the Himmat Card?
To be eligible, you must hold a certified disability status, remain unemployed, and have a PMT score below 45.
2. What is the stipend amount under the Himmat Card?
The stipend is PKR 10,500, distributed every quarter.
3. Can I apply for the Himmat Card if I’m receiving aid from other government schemes?
No, those already receiving financial aid from programs like BISP are not eligible.
4. How to Apply for Punjab Govt Himmat Card Scheme 2024?
You can visit your local Social Welfare Office for assistance or check updates on the Social Welfare Department’s website.
For more information on related financial assistance programs, visit my guide on How to File Income Tax Returns Online in Pakistan 2024.
