The Mahtari Vandan Yojana has emerged as a transformative initiative by the Chhattisgarh government, aiming to uplift women through direct financial assistance and holistic empowerment. Launched in March 2024 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, this scheme has already impacted over 70 lakh women and continues to expand with renewed budgetary commitments in 2025. Here’s an in-depth look at its features, eligibility, and societal impact.
Key Features of Mahtari Vandan Yojana
- Financial Assistance:
- Eligible women receive ₹1,000 per month (₹12,000 annually) via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to their Aadhaar-linked bank accounts.
- Widows, divorced, and deserted women are included, ensuring inclusivity.
- Objective:
- Economic Empowerment: Strengthen women’s financial independence and decision-making roles in families.
- Health & Nutrition: Improve maternal health, reduce infant mortality, and ensure access to free healthcare up to ₹5 lakh for frontline workers.
- Expanded Budget Allocation:
- The 2025 state budget allocated ₹5,500 crore for the scheme, an 83% increase from the previous ₹3,000 crore, reflecting the government’s commitment.
- Complementary Initiatives:
- Lakhpati Didi Yojana: Aims to create 3 crore women entrepreneurs.
- Sakhi Centres: ₹20 crore allocated for women’s safety and support services.
Eligibility Criteria
- Residency: Must be a permanent resident of Chhattisgarh.
- Age: Married women aged 21–60 years (widows/divorced included).
- Economic Status: Targets economically weaker sections; families with annual income <₹2.5 lakh or no government employees/income taxpayers.
- Documentation: Aadhaar, residence proof, marriage certificate, and bank account details.
How to Apply
- Online: Visit the official portal mahtarivandan.cgstate.gov.in.
- Offline: Submit forms at Anganwadi centers, Gram Panchayats, or Bal Vikas offices.
- Deadlines: Registration typically opens in February (e.g., 5–20 Feb 2025).
Impact and Vision
- Economic Security: Over 70 lakh women now have a steady income to meet personal and household needs.
- Gender Equality: Promotes women’s participation in household decisions and reduces societal disparities.
- Health Improvements: Free vaccinations and ₹5,000 pregnancy support enhance maternal care.
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai emphasized, “This scheme honors motherhood and ensures women’s dignity”. The program aligns with national goals like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao and Ujjwala Yojana, creating a robust framework for women’s upliftment.
2025 Updates and Future Goals
- 12th Instalment: Released in February 2025, continuing uninterrupted support.
- Infrastructure Development: Plans for 7 working women hostels (₹79 crore) and new Anganwadi centers (₹42 crore).
- Digital Integration: Streamlined applications via mobile apps and online portals for wider reach.
Why Mahtari Vandan Yojana Stands Out
- Transparency: DBT eliminates leakage, ensuring funds reach beneficiaries directly.
- Scalability: From 70 lakh to 1 crore beneficiaries, the scheme adapts to growing needs.
- Holistic Approach: Combines financial aid with healthcare, sanitation, and entrepreneurship.
Conclusion
The Mahtari Vandan Yojana is more than a financial aid program—it’s a movement toward gender equity and women-led development. With a ₹5,500 crore budget and innovative policies, Chhattisgarh sets a benchmark for empowering its Matri Shakti (mother power). Eligible women are encouraged to apply and join this transformative journey.
Official Portal: mahtarivandan.cgstate.gov.in | Helpline: Contact local Anganwadi/Gram Panchayat offices.
“When women thrive, families prosper, and nations progress.” – PM Narendra Modi
