Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Mahatari Vandana Yojana on March 10, 2024 in Chhattisgarh, marking the commencement of disbursements under this pioneering scheme. Aimed at providing financial assistance of Rs 1000 per month via direct benefit transfer (DBT) to eligible married women in the state. The scheme is aimed to improve economic empowerment, boost financial security, and gender equality while reinforcing the pivotal role of women within families.
Mahatari Vandana Yojana: Eligibility Criteria
The scheme extends its benefits to all eligible married women above 21 years of age as of January 1, 2024, including widows, divorced, and deserted women as well. It is estimated that approximately 70 lakh women across the state will reap the advantages of this initiative.
During the launch event, PM Modi expressed his reverence to Maa Danteshwari, Maa Bambleshwari, and Maa Mahamaya, reflecting on his recent visit to the state where projects worth Rs 35,000 crores were dedicated and initiated. He affirmed the government's commitment by disbursing the inaugural instalment amounting to Rs 655 crore under the Mahatari Vandana Yojana. While acknowledging the absence of physical presence, he conveyed gratitude to the women empowerment movement across the nation, underscoring his pledge of Rs 1000 monthly assistance as a testament to his assurance.
Prioritizing Women's Well-being
Prime Minister Modi reiterated the government's dedication to uplifting the status of women, citing various initiatives such as providing pucca houses and Ujjwala Gas Cylinders in their name, substantial Jan Dhan Accounts and Mudra Loans availed by women, and the empowerment of over 10 crore Self-Help Group (SHG) women, with aspirations to reach 3 crore 'Lakhpati Didis'. He emphasized the transformative impact of the Namo Didi program and hinted at forthcoming events to amplify its reach.
Recognizing the vital role of women in family well-being, Prime Minister Modi unveiled measures to address maternal and infant health challenges. These include free vaccinations and financial assistance of Rs 5,000 during pregnancy. Additionally, he reiterated the government's commitment to providing free healthcare services up to Rs 5 lakhs for frontline workers such as Asha and Anganwadi workers. Reflecting on past sanitation challenges, he emphasized the government's efforts to ensure dignity through universal access to toilets.
Assuring the fulfilment of electoral commitments, PM Modi reaffirmed the government's resolve to implement the Mahatari Vandana Yojana, thereby honouring assurances made to the people of Chhattisgarh. He highlighted ongoing endeavours such as the construction of 18 lakh pucca houses, affirming the government's unwavering determination.
Mahtari Vandana Yojana: How to Check Application Status?
Individuals can verify the status of their application by entering either their registered mobile number or Aadhaar number on the website: https://mahtarivandan.cgstate.gov.in
In addressing agricultural concerns, PM Modi assured timely payment of pending bonuses to paddy farmers in Chhattisgarh. He celebrated the government's efforts in disbursing bonuses worth Rs 3,700 crores on the occasion of Atal Bihari Vajpayee's birth anniversary. Furthermore, he pledged procurement of rice at a minimum support price of Rs 3,100 per quintal in the state.
हमारी सरकार के बीते 10 वर्ष महिलाओं के मान-सम्मान, समृद्धि और सुरक्षा को समर्पित रहे हैं। छत्तीसगढ़ में महतारी वंदन योजना कार्यक्रम में शामिल होकर सम्मानित महसूस कर रहा हूं।https://t.co/6B1eZFi6fj
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 10, 2024
