On March 4, 2024, Atishi Marlena, the Finance Minister of Delhi, unveiled the ₹76,000 crore budget for the fiscal year 2024-25, marked by the overarching theme of “Ram Rajya.” Among the notable announcements was the introduction of the ‘Mahila Samman Yojana,’ a groundbreaking initiative aimed at empowering women across the capital city.
The Mahila Samman Yojana: A Paradigm Shift
At the heart of the budget lies the Mahila Samman Yojana, a visionary scheme designed to uplift and support women in Delhi. Under this scheme, every woman above the age of 18 will receive a monthly stipend of ₹1,000, with a substantial budget allocation of ₹2,000 crore for the fiscal year 2024-25. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to gender equality and social welfare, recognizing the pivotal role that women play in shaping communities and driving progress.
Empowering Women, Transforming Lives
The Mahila Samman Yojana promises to transform the lives of over 50 lakh women in Delhi, providing them with financial autonomy and stability. By prioritizing women’s empowerment, the government seeks to foster inclusive growth and alleviate economic disparities within the city. Moreover, the scheme serves as a testament to Delhi’s unwavering dedication to promoting gender equity and social justice.
Timing and Implementation
In her interview with LiveMint, Atishi Marlena shed light on the timeline and logistics of the scheme’s implementation. With the Lok Sabha 2024 elections on the horizon, the rollout of the Mahila Samman Yojana will commence post-election, with the first installment slated for distribution by October. Atishi emphasized the meticulous planning and administrative rigor behind the scheme, ensuring seamless execution and maximum impact.
Eligibility Criteria and Financial Prudence
To qualify for the scheme, women must be registered voters of Delhi and refrain from availing benefits under any other government program. Additionally, beneficiaries should not be income taxpayers, ensuring that the scheme reaches those most in need of support. Addressing concerns regarding the financial viability of the initiative, Atishi reassured the public that the government had conducted thorough calculations and resource allocation, leveraging internal revenue streams to fund the ambitious scheme.
Fiscal Surplus and Efficient Governance
Atishi Marlena underscored the Aam Aadmi Party’s unwavering commitment to fiscal responsibility and efficient governance. Despite facing challenges such as limited central funding, the Delhi government has consistently delivered on its promises, offering an array of welfare measures including free electricity, water, and transportation services. This prudent fiscal management has positioned Delhi as the sole fiscally surplus government in the country, a testament to its resilience and administrative acumen.
Conclusion: Paving the Way for Inclusive Prosperity
The Mahila Samman Yojana symbolizes a paradigm shift towards inclusive governance and social empowerment in Delhi. By prioritizing the needs of women and marginalized communities, the government aims to foster a more equitable and prosperous society. As the scheme takes shape in the coming months, it serves as a beacon of hope and opportunity for women across Delhi, heralding a new era of progress and prosperity for all.
