Government initiatives in India to empower women
Each year on March 8th, we commemorate International Women's Day, dedicated to recognizing the remarkable accomplishments of women in various spheres, including social, economic, cultural, and political domains. With this year's theme "Inspire Inclusion," governments worldwide, including India, emphasize the importance of creating a world where women and girls can access equal opportunities to flourish. Here are five such initiatives empowering women in India.
Driving gender equality
Beti Bachao Beti Padhao scheme's core objective is to tackle social issues like gender-based abortions and promote widespread girl-child education. It's primarily an educational campaign aimed at fostering a shift in societal attitudes. The Udaan initiative, of the Central Board of Secondary Education under the Ministry of Human Resource Development, aims to enhance the enrollment of girls in renowned engineering and technical institutions nationwide.
Skill development of minority women
The Ministry of Minority Affairs has introduced several skill development schemes, including "Seekho Aur Kamao," "USTTAD," and "Nai Manzil," targeting six recognized minority communities. These programs not only focus on imparting technical skills but also on enhancing soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Additionally, the "Nai Roshni" scheme focuses on leadership development for minority women, offering training in leadership to empower them.
Safe havens
The One-Stop Center scheme provides comprehensive assistance to women impacted by violence, encompassing medical aid, legal support, and counseling services. These centers serve as a lifeline for women who have experienced various forms of violence, including domestic abuse, sexual assault, trafficking, and harassment. The Mahila Police Volunteer scheme collaborates with law enforcement to raise awareness and promote women's safety in public areas.
Securing women's futures
Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana encourages parents to save for their daughters' future through attractive interest rates and tax benefits. It promotes systematic savings supporting their daughter's higher education and marriage, aiming to remove the perception of a girl's child as a financial burden. Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana facilitates convenient access to loans for female microentrepreneurs, empowering them to initiate and expand their ventures.
Hostel establishments in rented premises
To offer safe and convenient accommodation for working women, the initiative called Sakhi Niwas was introduced. This scheme supports projects for constructing new hostel buildings, expanding existing ones, and establishing hostels in rented premises. These hostel projects aim to be accessible to all working women, who migrate from rural areas to Tier-1 and metropolitan cities in pursuit of improved educational and employment prospects.
Safe shelter for destitute women
The Swadhar Greh scheme aims to provide temporary accommodation, support, and rehabilitation to women in difficult circumstances. These homes serve as safe spaces for women who are destitute, survivors of violence, or in any other vulnerable situation. The scheme also provides counseling, legal aid, medical assistance, and skill development programs to empower women to regain control over their lives and become self-reliant.
