The article highlights key aspects of the budget allocation and proposals made by the Women and Child Development Ministry in India for the fiscal year 2023-24. The budget for the ministry has been increased to Rs 25,448.75 crore, with a significant portion allocated to the Saksham Anganwadi and POSHAN 2.0 programs, aimed at improving the well-being of women and children.
One notable announcement in the budget speech was the introduction of the \’Mahila Samman Saving Certificate.\’ This scheme offers a fixed interest rate of 7.5% for two years and allows deposits to be made in the name of women or girl children. The maximum deposit amount has been set at Rs 2 lakh, and partial withdrawals are permitted.
The finance minister emphasized the economic empowerment of women through the creation of self-help groups and large producer enterprises. Under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana National Rural Livelihood Mission, 81 lakh self-help groups have been formed, which will be further supported to reach the next stage of economic empowerment.
The budget also acknowledged the significant financial assistance provided to small farmers, particularly women farmers, under the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme. Over Rs 2.25 lakh crore has been disbursed to small farmers, with Rs 54,000 crore allocated specifically to three crore women farmers.
The allocations for various programs and missions, such as Mission VATSALYA, Mission Shakti, and autonomous bodies like CARA, NCPCR, and National Commission for Women, were also mentioned in the budget.
Overall, the budget aims to enhance the welfare and empowerment of women and children in India through targeted initiatives, financial assistance, and the creation of supportive frameworks. The introduction of the \’Mahila Samman Saving Certificate\’ and increased allocations for key programs demonstrate the government\’s commitment to addressing the needs of this vulnerable population.
Source: The Economic Times
