From financial aid to political representation: How Maharashtra government is empowering women
PTC News Desk: Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maharashtra's Mahayuti government, there has been an ongoing effort to promote women's empowerment, with a special emphasis on economic and educational advancement. These initiatives acknowledge the vital role that women play in driving national development, and several programs have been implemented to improve women's lives across the state.
One such key initiative is "Ladki Bahin" program, a financial aid scheme. It was initially launched in Madhya Pradesh by Shivraj Singh Chouhan government and later extended to Maharashtra. Under the scheme, women get Rs 1,500 monthly assistance (annually Rs. 18000) which is directly added to their bank accounts.
The scheme has benefitted over one and a half crore women so far.
Besides financial aid, the governments have also initiated efforts to provide free education to girls from economically weaker sections. Under the initiative, girls from modest backgrounds are able to get costly vocational training which can equip them with quality education and better job prospects.
Addressing the financial burden triggered by the unpredictability of domestic gas prices due to international crises such as the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the Chief Minister's Annapurna Yojana provides economically backward women with 3 free LPG cylinders each year. Additionally, the Centre's Ujwala Yojana holds a significant role in delivering gas connections to women's homes, reducing health risks associated with smoke from traditional cooking methods.
The schemes which offer high-interest savings options like the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana and transportation benefits like 50% travel discount in Maharashtra show the government's commitment to women's welfare.
The central government has announced reservations in the Vidhan Sabha and Lok Sabha, with the aim of increasing women's participation and influence in governance. This, together with measures like putting the mother's name on official documents and increasing maternity leave from 12 to 26 weeks, shows respect and appreciation for women's roles in society.
Moreover, housing efforts like the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana benefit women as property owners, while legal initiatives like the repeal of triple talaq are part of a larger effort to secure women's financial and social security, dignity, and access to opportunities.
These comprehensive policies represent a transformational shift towards gender equality and women's empowerment in India. Addressing crucial areas such as education, economic assistance, health, and political representation lays the groundwork for a society that recognises women's contributions as essential to its growth and development.
- With inputs from agencies
