In a significant move towards women empowerment, Delhi Finance Minister Atishi unveiled the ‘Mukhyamantri Mahila Samman Yojana’ during her budget presentation for the fiscal year 2024-25 in the Delhi Assembly. Under this pioneering initiative, women above 18 years of age will receive ₹1,000 monthly, aiming to provide financial autonomy to over 50 lakh women in the capital city.
With an allocated budget of ₹2,000 crore, the scheme signifies a pivotal step towards fostering economic independence among women. To qualify, eligible women must be Delhi voters, not availing benefits from other government schemes, and not income taxpayers, as outlined by the Finance Minister in her maiden budget speech.
Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal hailed the initiative as the “world’s biggest women empowerment programme,” emphasizing its transformative impact on the lives of Delhi’s women. Speaking at a press conference, Kejriwal underscored the significance of empowering women by placing financial resources directly into their hands, enabling them to meet their needs and aspirations independently.
The scheme, lauded for its inclusivity and outreach, is set to undergo the necessary legislative procedures before implementation. With over 67 lakh female voters in Delhi, the scheme holds promise in uplifting a substantial portion of the city’s female population.
To participate, eligible women are required to submit a form along with a self-declaration affirming their eligibility criteria. The streamlined process aims to ensure accessibility and transparency in disbursing benefits to deserving beneficiaries.
While the initiative has garnered praise for its progressive stance on women’s empowerment, it has also sparked debates and criticisms. Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva labeled the budget as “political,” questioning the cessation of pension benefits for senior citizens and persons with disabilities in recent years.
Amidst diverse reactions, the ‘Mukhyamantri Mahila Samman Yojana’ represents a bold stride towards gender equality and socio-economic empowerment. By providing women with financial security and independence, the initiative paves the way for a more inclusive and progressive society, where every woman has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to her fullest potential.
