India, Aug. 17 -- justify;">Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday said the 80th year of Independence would mark a year of economic freedom for women in the state, highlighting the government's welfare initiatives and development measures during the state-level Independence Day celebrations in Ferozepur.

After unfurling the national Tricolour at Cantt Board Stadium, Mann said more than 65 lakh women had received financial assistance under the Mawan Dheeyan Satkar Yojna. According to the state government, 74.59 lakh women have been registered under the scheme, with Rs.2,274.42 crore transferred to the bank accounts of 65.62 lakh beneficiaries.

Mann said the government was working towards expanding opportunities for women w...