In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at improving maternal and child health, Chief Minister Punjab, Maryam Nawaz Sharif, has launched the “Aghosh” Program. This program is a major step toward ensuring that pregnant women and mothers of children under the age of two receive the medical attention and financial support they need to provide their children with a healthy beginning in life. In this article, we will explore the key details of the program, its benefits, how to register, and who qualifies for the 23,000 rupees assistance.
What is the Maryam Nawaz Aghosh Program?
The “Aghosh” Program is a government initiative aimed at offering vital healthcare services and financial assistance to pregnant women and mothers with children under two years of age. This program is part of a broader effort to improve maternal and child health in Punjab, especially for those in underserved and rural areas.The ultimate goal of the program is to ensure that every mother and child has access to necessary healthcare services, as a healthy mother leads to a healthier family and community. CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif has repeatedly emphasized the importance of maternal health, stating, “A healthy mother guarantees a healthy family.”
Who Qualifies for the Aghosh Program?
Eligibility for the Aghosh Program is primarily based on two key factors:
- Pregnant women – Women who are currently expecting a child.
- Mothers with children under two years old – This includes mothers who have recently given birth and those with infants.
Additionally, women must be residents of Punjab and live in one of the 13 districts where the program is initially being launched. These districts include:
- Dera Ghazi Khan
- Taunsa
- Rajanpur
- Layyah
And several others across the province.
If you meet these criteria, you are eligible to benefit from the program’s health services and financial assistance.
Key Benefits of the Aghosh Program
The Aghosh Program provides a variety of benefits, from financial support during pregnancy to postnatal care and child immunization incentives. Here’s a breakdown of the benefits available:
Initial Registration and Ongoing Support
When a pregnant woman registers for the program at a health center or Maryam Nawaz Health Clinic, she will receive Rs. 2,000 as initial support. This support continues throughout the pregnancy, with regular check-ups, until the child is born.
Health Center Visits
Each visit to a health center is rewarded with Rs. 1,500, with a total of up to Rs. 6,000 available throughout the pregnancy for regular check-ups and healthcare services.
Birth of the Child
When the child is born at a health center, a celebratory gift of Rs. 4,000 is given to the mother to support her during the birth process.
Postnatal Care
Once the baby is born, mothers receive Rs. 2,000 for the first medical examination of the baby, which should take place within 15 days of birth. This ensures that both the mother and the child receive timely care after childbirth.
Birth Registration Incentive
Mothers who register their child’s birth at the health center are eligible for an additional Rs. 5,000 as an incentive. This encourages the legal registration of the child, which is important for their future.
Immunization Incentives
The program also incentivizes timely immunization of children. For each immunization session, the mother receives Rs. 2,000, totaling up to Rs. 4,000 for ensuring that the child gets the necessary vaccinations.
How to Register for the Aghosh Program
The registration process for the Aghosh Program is easy and user-friendly.The Punjab government has set up a dedicated toll-free helpline, 1221, which provides crucial information and assistance to pregnant women and mothers. By calling this number, you can:
- Receive detailed information about the program.
- Get guidance on the registration process.
- Ask any questions or concerns you may have regarding the benefits and eligibility criteria.
The best part is that the registration can also be done online through this helpline, making it more convenient for women, especially those living in remote areas. This eliminates the need to travel to a health center, ensuring that no woman is left out due to a lack of access.
How to Access the Aghosh Program Benefits
The Aghosh Program is initially being launched in 13 districts, including Dera Ghazi Khan, Taunsa, Rajanpur, and Layyah.The program is anticipated to grow in the future, extending its reach to more areas across Punjab.The government has made efforts to ensure that the program is accessible to all eligible women. By providing a toll-free helpline and online registration, the program aims to break down barriers to healthcare access. No matter where you live in the covered districts, you can get the information and support you need.
Why is the Aghosh Program Important?
Maternal health is intimately connected to the health of the child and the overall well-being of the community.By supporting pregnant women and mothers in their healthcare needs, the Aghosh Program is taking a significant step toward ensuring that future generations of Punjab grow up healthy and strong.As CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif said, “A healthy mother guarantees a healthy family.” The benefits provided under this program will help reduce the economic burden on families, allowing mothers to focus on their health and the well-being of their children rather than worrying about medical expenses.
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Conclusion
The Maryam Nawaz Aghosh Program is an essential initiative aimed at improving the health of mothers and children in Punjab. With financial support, medical services, and incentives for childbirth, postnatal care, and immunization, the program is creating a healthier future for the province.If you are a pregnant woman or a mother with a child under two years old in one of the participating districts, don’t miss out on the benefits of this life-changing program. Simply call 1221 or visit your nearest health center to register today and ensure a brighter, healthier future for you and your child.