India, with its rich tapestry of culture and diversity, has made remarkable strides in the direction of gender equality. To empower and uplift women across the country, the Indian government has launched a multitude of schemes and initiatives. These programs span a wide spectrum, from education and healthcare to financial inclusion and entrepreneurship support. Stick to this article to see list of government schemes for women.
The schemes are designed not only to empower women but also to ensure their holistic development, covering areas such as education, healthcare, employment, and financial independence. In this article, we embark on a journey through the pile of government schemes tailored exclusively for women in India. These initiatives are not just policies on paper; they represent a commitment to fostering a nation where every woman has the opportunity to thrive, irrespective of her background or circumstances.
As we delve deeper into this exploration. We will uncover the essence of schemes, understanding how they are making a tangible difference in the lives of millions of Indian women.
Schemes are
Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao
In a nation as diverse and dynamic as India, the significance of the girl child cannot be overstated. Recognizing this, the Indian Government launched the ambitious “Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao” (Save the daughter, educate the daughter) scheme in 2015. This visionary initiative seeks to combat the deep-rooted social issues of female infanticide and gender disparity of education.
This scheme born out of a deep concern for India’s skewed child ratio. It was evident that gender-based discrimination and neglect of the girl child were the primary causes. Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao thus envisioned to reverse this troubling trend. Ensure that every girl in India not only survives but thrives. Since its inception Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao has made significant strides in changing mindsets and achieving its goal.
Sukanya samriddhi yojana (SSY)
India’s journey towards gender equality and financial inclusion took a step forward with the launch of the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY) in 2015. This government – backed savings scheme was introduced under the “Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao” campaign and is designed to encourage parents to save for the future of their girl children. The primary objective of SSY is to ensure that parents financially plan for their girl child’s future, particularly for higher education and marriage expenses.
The SSY amount matures after 21 years from the date of opening or when the girl child gets married. The minimum annual deposit is INR 250, with a maximum limit of INR 1.5 lakh per financial year. Partial withdrawals are allowed only after the girl child reaches the age of 18. But the amount should not exceed 50% of the balance at the end of the previous financial year.
This scheme aims to inculcate the habit of savings from an early age and offers an attractive interest rate, making it an ideal choice for long-term financial planning.
Working Women Hostel Scheme
Another initiative by the government for women is the “Working Women Hostel Scheme”. Which addresses the challenges faced by women who migrate to urban areas for education or employment. This Working Women Hostel Scheme launched by the Ministry of Women and Child Development in collaboration with state governments.
It recognizes that women who move to cities and towns face difficulties in finding safe and affordable accommodation. This scheme aims to provide them with a secure and conducive living environment, enabling them to focus on their education and careers without worrying about their safety and well-being. Its features include- safe accommodation, affordable rent, safe location, facilities, security measures, and other features too.
Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY)
this Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) is a significant government scheme launched by the Indian government in 2017. To improve maternal and child health outcomes by providing financial assistance to pregnant women and lactating mothers. Especially those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, to ensure proper nutrition and health care during pregnancy and after childbirth.
It is a key component of the government’s commitment to reducing maternal and infant mortality rates, addressing malnutrition and promoting overall maternal and child well being. Its objective included reducing maternal mortality, promoting child health, financial support, and awareness and education.
Mahila E-Haat
Mahila e-Haat is a pioneering initiative by the government of India aimed at empowering and supporting women entrepreneurs and artisans across the country. Launched under the Ministry of Women and Child Development in March 2016. This online platform provides a digital marketplace for women to showcase and sell their products and services. The scheme aims to promote financial independence, entrepreneurship, and economic growth among women, particularly those from marginalized communities. This government scheme for women has enabled thousands of women to start and grow their businesses. Thereby increasing their financial independence and contributing to their families income.
By participating in the online marketplace, many women have improved their digital literacy skills, which can have long-term benefits in the digital age.
One-Stop Centre Scheme
The One-Stop Centre (OSC) scheme, launched by the government of India in 2015. This scheme is a transformative initiative designed to provide comprehensive support. Assistance to women who have been victims of violence or are in distress. This scheme, also known as “Sakhi”, aims to create a safe and supportive environment where women can seek help, access services, and rebuild their lives. One Stop Centres are designed to offer holistic support to women facing various forms of violence, including domestic violence, sexual harassment, emotional abuse, and more. OSCs provide immediate shelter and protection to women. They offer a safe and secure environment, ensuring the physical and emotional well-being of the survivors.
STEP (Support to Training and Employment Program for Women)
This scheme, STEP is a pivotal initiative launched by the Indian government to promote skill development and enhance employment opportunities for women across the country. Introduced by the Ministry Of Women and Child Development. STEP focuses on improving the employability for women, particularly those from marginalized communities, by offering training in various sectors. STEP primarily aims to provide skill development. From training to women in a wide range of sectors, including agriculture, healthcare, information technology, handicrafts, and more.
The scheme targets women who are either unemployed or underemployed. With a specific focus on women from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, including Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and other backward classes (OBC).
Swadhar Greh
The Swadhar Greh scheme is a vital initiative by the Government of India. That focuses on providing shelter and support to women who are in difficult circumstances and facing distress due to social, economic, or family-related issues.
Launched by the Ministry of Women and Child development. This scheme aims to offer a safe and nurturing environment to women in need, enabling them to rebuild their lives with dignity and independence. Swadhar Greh focuses on empowering women by offering counseling, skill development, and vocational training programs. These initiatives help women regain their self-esteem, self-reliance, and financial independence.
Mahila Shakti Kendra (MSK)
This scheme is a dynamic initiative by the Government of India aimed at empowering women and promoting gender equality at the grassroots level. Launched by the Ministry of Women and Child Development. This scheme focuses on creating a sustainable ecosystem for women’s development by providing a range of services and support mechanisms. The MSK scheme adopts a holistic and multidimensional approach, covering various aspects of their lives, including social, economic, and health-related issues. It operates at both the rural and urban level, reaching women across the country, especially those from marginalized communities.
Conclusion
These government schemes exemplify India’s commitment to empowering its women. They serve as a testament to the nation’s understanding of the pivotal role women play in the country’s development. By offering financial assistance, education, health care, and legal support, these initiatives are breaking barriers. Fostering an environment where women can thrive and contribute to the nation’s growth. The journey towards gender equality is ongoing, but with such schemes in place, the future for Indian women looks promising and full of possibilities.
