If you’re an elderly artist or a disabled person who is trying to survive, life’s stress can become overwhelming. The years in which you have invested with full dedication in your art might not bring enough money to cover the expenses of today’s life. However, there’s a solution, the Sila-e-Fun Program, to give a hand to those in need.

This program is designed for those who have devoted their lives to the fun field. They have spent their years in the arts, writing, and many more fields. It’s an opportunity for them to receive a monthly stipend that could alleviate their financial burden and offer them dignity.  Whether you are a poet, painter, musician, or belong to any other field, you may qualify. If your age is above 50 or over and you’re earning less than Rs. 15,000 a month, you may also qualify. 

In this article, we’ll explain the eligibility criteria as well as the Sila-e-Fun program so you can get the essential guidance that you may need.

The Sila-e-Fun Program is a lifeline for elderly artists and disabled individuals. Besides them, it also supports those who are struggling with financial challenges. Many of these people have spent a great time in their field, but still, they are struggling to make ends meet. This is where the Sila-e-Fun Program comes in; it gives a monthly stipend to them to cover the necessities.

This program was started by the Ehsaas Program 8171 and was supported by the Punjab Social Protection Authority (PSPA). It is designed to benefit artists over 50 with a monthly salary of less than Rs. 15,000. It provides dignified social pensions to poets, writers, artists, and other media professionals who have made notable contributions to their fields, such as film, TV, Literature, Poetry Journalism, Theatre Painting, Music, etc.

To apply for the Sila-e-Fun Program, you must meet certain eligibility requirements. The program only supports those who truly require it.

If you fall on the previously mentioned criteria, you can apply to the Sila-e-Fun Program and receive a monthly stipend, which can improve your financial status. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide on how to apply for the Ehsaas Sila-e-Fun Program.

To submit your application online for the Sila-e-Fun Program, follow these simple steps:

• Visit the Official Portal: Go to the official website for 8171 to start your application. It is the only official site for determining eligibility and applying for the program.
• Enter Your CNIC Number: On the portal page, you’ll be presented with a form where you must enter your 13-digit CNIC number. This number is needed to verify whether you meet the program’s criteria.
• Check Your Status: When you’ve entered the CNIC number, press enter. Within a few seconds, you can see your status on the display. If you’re eligible, the portal will inform you that you’re eligible for the stipend.
• Follow the Next Steps: When your eligibility has been confirmed, the portal will direct you through each step. You can then follow them to submit your application.

If you want to submit your application on the spot, you may go to the nearest Ehsaas Center. Here’s how:

• Visit an Ehsaas Center: Find the closest Ehsaas Center in your district. These centers are located all over Pakistan, particularly in the areas covered by the Sila-e-Fun Program.
• Bring Necessary Documents: Always CNIC as well as other mandatory documents. These may include evidence regarding your age, arts experience, and monthly income. This is required to confirm your eligibility.
• Complete the Registration Form: You will get an application form here to fill out at the center. When you have completed the form, you can submit it to the center’s staff.
• Eligibility Confirmation: The staff of Ethe has Center will verify your application and all documents. They will tell you whether you meet the eligibility requirements or not. If everything is approved, you will be informed of the good news on the spot.

To confirm your application or to check your status, follow these steps:

• Call the Helpline: There is a PSPA Helpline, and it’s available to answer any questions you might have about your application. Call 0800-786-786 for help.
• Text to Check Status: To check your eligibility or payment status for the Sila-e-Fun program, you can send your CNIC number at #8171. This will allow you to stay up-to-date on your eligibility and any steps to take.

The Punjab Social Protection Authority has noticed that the nearest countries like India and Bangladesh’s government support their elderly artists and disabled people with monthly financial support. But in Pakistan, there was no such program. The government, therefore, launched the Sila-e-Fun Program to fill this need.

• Help for older artists: This is a very big step to help senior or older writers or any artists. This program’s main aim is to give them financial help to meet their daily needs. 
• Help for disabled individuals: This program also helps disabled people ensure they receive the assistance and support they require to preserve their dignity.
• Stability: This program not only provides financial help but also gives them the feeling of stability. It makes artists and other people feel secure, meaning they are no longer dependent on others for their daily needs.
• Recognizing Cultural Heritage: Artists play the most important role in influencing the cultural values of any nation. This program will help preserve and promote Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage.

The program is offered throughout 36 districts in Punjab, where qualified people and artists can apply for financial assistance. It aims to alleviate the financial burdens of those who have contributed so much to our country’s culture.

• Lahore
• Dera Ghazi Khan
• Sheikhupura
• Jhang
• Rawalpindi
• Sialkot
• Mandi Bahauddin
• Multan
• Khanewal
• Toba Tek Singh
• Faisalabad
• Rahim Yar Khan
• Gujrat
• Narowal
• Lodhran
• Okara
• Jhelum
• Nankana Sahib
• Sahiwal
• Mianwali
• Rajanpur
• Kasur
• Hafizabad
• Chakwal
• Sargodha
• Vehari
• Bhakkar
• Chiniot
• Pakpattan
• Gujranwala
• Bahawalnagar
• Khushab
• Layyah
• Muzaffargarh

If you have questions regarding your participation in the Sila-e-Fun Program, don’t hesitate to contact us. Contact the PSPA Helpline. This is available 24/7 to answer your questions. Contact them if you require additional information or assistance regarding the program. They’re available to help and guide you through any questions or issues!

To conclude, the Sila-e-Fun Program is here to help disabled people and elderly artists struggling financially in Punjab. They get a monthly Sila-e-Fun program payment, which provides them with financial support as well as social dignity and security. The program shows that we are well aware of the sacrifices and achievements of those who’ve spent their lives in music, art, and other creative fields.

When you meet the eligibility criteria, you can apply online or in person at Ehsaas Center. The program offers services in 36 districts of Punjab. If you are still unclear and have any questions or need additional guidance, you can contact the PSPA helpline.