The Punjab government has earmarked significant resources in the 2026-27 budget to strengthen women’s protection, education, welfare and economic participation across the province. The package includes new protection centres, women’s universities, working women’s hostels and institutional support measures designed to improve safety and create greater opportunities for women in both urban and rural areas.
A key feature of the budget is the expansion of Violence Against Women Protection Centres. New facilities will be established in Lahore, Rawalpindi and Faisalabad, while additional funds have been allocated for similar centres in Sahiwal, Sargodha and Bahawalpur. These initiatives aim to provide stronger support systems for women facing violence, harassment and other social challenges.
The budget also includes funding for offices of the Punjab Women Protection Authority, a move expected to enhance institutional capacity and improve access to services. Strengthening these offices will help ensure timely assistance for women seeking legal protection, counselling and support through formal mechanisms established to safeguard their rights.
Meanwhile, the government has announced the establishment of women’s universities in Sialkot and Dera Ghazi Khan, reflecting a continued focus on expanding educational opportunities. These projects are expected to increase access to higher education for female students and contribute to the development of a more skilled and empowered generation of women across Punjab.
In addition, funds have been allocated for working women’s hostels in various cities to provide safe and affordable accommodation for women pursuing employment opportunities. The initiative is expected to ease financial pressures, support professional growth and encourage greater participation of women in the workforce, particularly those relocating for jobs.
The budget places special emphasis on women’s economic independence and long-term social development. Through investments in education, protection services and welfare programmes, the government aims to create a safer environment and expand opportunities for women to play a more active role in the province’s economic and social progress.