The Punjab government has launched the Aghosh program, a major initiative aimed at improving maternal and child health among underprivileged families.
The scheme provides phased financial assistance of up to Rs23,000 to pregnant and lactating women, as well as mothers of children up to two years of age, across 13 districts in the province.
The program, announced under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, seeks to promote safe pregnancies, encourage hospital-based deliveries, and ensure timely vaccinations for newborns.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the Aghosh program, including eligibility criteria, registration steps, and financial assistance details.
Objectives of Punjab Aghosh Program
The Aghosh program is designed to address critical maternal and child health challenges in Punjab’s rural and underdeveloped regions. The key objectives include:
- Providing financial aid to pregnant and lactating women to cover health-related expenses
- Encouraging hospital-based deliveries to reduce maternal and infant mortality rates
- Ensuring regular antenatal check-ups and postnatal care
- Promoting child immunization and early health monitoring
- Raising awareness about nutrition, hygiene, and family planning
Eligibility criteria for Punjab Aghosh Program
To qualify for financial assistance under the Aghosh program, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Target Group: Pregnant women, lactating mothers, and mothers of children up to two years old.
Residency: Applicants must reside in one of the 13 selected districts of Punjab:- Bahawalpur
- Muzaffargarh
- Kot Addu
- Bhakkar
- Dera Ghazi Khan
- Mianwali
- Rahim Yar Khan
- Rajanpur
- Khushab
- Layyah
- Bahawalnagar
- Lodhran
- Taunsa Sharif
- Identification: A valid Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) is mandatory.
- Medical Documentation: Proof of pregnancy, lactation, or a child’s birth certificate is required.
How to apply for Punjab Aghosh Program
Women seeking to benefit from the program must register in person at designated health facilities across Punjab. Here’s how:
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Visit a Health Facility:
- Go to the nearest Basic Health Unit (BHU), Rural Health Center (RHC), Tehsil Headquarters Hospital (THQ), or District Headquarters Hospital (DHQ) in your district.
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Consult a Health Worker:
- Approach a Lady Health Visitor (LHV) or another authorized healthcare provider.
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Submit Required Documents:
- Provide a valid CNIC, proof of residence, and maternity records.
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Electronic Registration:
- The health worker will register you using the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system.
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Receive Confirmation:
- Upon successful registration, you will be notified of the next steps via SMS or in-person communication
- Upon successful registration, you will be notified of the next steps via SMS or in-person communication
Financial assistance details of Punjab Aghosh Program
The Aghosh program provides financial aid in phases to ensure continuous medical care for both mothers and infants. The breakdown is as follows:
1. Registration:
- Rs2,000 upon initial registration at a government health facility.
2. Antenatal Check-ups (During Pregnancy):
- Rs1,500 for each scheduled check-up during the 3rd, 6th, 7th, and 9th months of pregnancy.
- Total: Rs6,000 for completing all four visits.
3. Delivery at a Government Health Facility:
- Rs4,000 for giving birth at a public hospital or health center.
4. Postnatal and Newborn Care:
- Rs2,000 for the newborn’s first check-up within 15 days of birth.
- Rs2,000 each for the first and second measles vaccinations.
- Total: Rs4,000 for immunization support.
5. Birth Registration:
- Rs5,000 for registering the child’s birth certificate (B-Form/CRC) with NADRA and updating the EMR system
Benefits of Aghosh Program
The initiative aims to alleviate financial barriers and promote better healthcare access among vulnerable communities. Some of the key benefits include:
- Regular Health Monitoring: Ensures timely medical check-ups for both mother and child
- Financial Assistance: Helps families cover pregnancy and childcare-related expenses
- Improved Healthcare Utilization: Encourages deliveries at government hospitals, reducing home-birth risks
- Awareness and Education: Educates women on maternal health, hygiene, nutrition, and family planning
Guidelines for beneficiaries
To ensure smooth processing and uninterrupted benefits, registered women must:
- Carry Identification: Always bring the CNIC or Aghosh Program card when visiting health facilities.
- Provide Updated Contact Details: Ensure the registered mobile number is active for notifications
- Follow Medical Timelines: Attend all scheduled antenatal and postnatal check-ups to qualify for payments
- Stay Informed: Participate in health awareness sessions on nutrition, hygiene, and vaccination schedules.
Complaint & Helpline Assistance
In case of registration issues or payment delays, beneficiaries can seek help through:
- Local Health Facility: Visit the registration center where you applied
- Program Helpline: Contact the designated health department for complaints and inquiries.
