Yash Raj Films announces year-long assistance plan to support low-income cine workers

Aditya Chopra

In 2021, Yash Raj Films' (YRF) head honcho Aditya Chopra had launched the Yash Chopra Saathi Initiative to help daily-wage workers who were struggling during the pandemic-induced lockdown. This year, the filmmaker has expanded its welfare initiative with Saathi Program 2026, a year-long plan that provides support to film industry workers and their families. It supports the low-income workers who are registered with different film unions, including the Federation of Western India Cine Employees and All Indian Cine Workers Association.

The initiative has identified key support areas - monthly household assistance to enhance food security, healthcare support encompassing access to medicines, education aid for their children, and essential travel support including annual hometown visits. Retired film industry workers also have access to the benefits.

A source told mid-day, "Eligibility for the program includes active film industry workers registered with recognised unions, low-income households, families with school or college-going children, and senior workers managing ongoing health needs. For Aditya, the industry's people have played a vital role in shaping YRF's legacy, and he wants to give back to as many of them as possible."

Jan 2026
When the initiative was launched

What does the plan include?

. Monthly household assistance to enhance food security
. Healthcare support, including access to medicines
. Education aid for workers' children
. Essential travel support