Empowering Women: A Government Initiatives Guide

In an increasingly diverse society, women face significant challenges, particularly those who are single mothers or widows. The government of India has taken proactive measures to address these issues through various schemes aimed at empowering women financially and socially. This guide explores key initiatives such as schemes for single mothers, widows, family pensions, social assistance programs, and support for armed forces personnel.

Single Mothers and Widows

The government has implemented several programs to empower single mothers and widows:

1. Krishnan Kutir Home (KrN)

   • Set up in Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh with a capacity of 1,000 residents, providing safety and secure living conditions, health services, nutritious food, legal support, and counseling.

2. Mission Shakti: Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY)

   • Includes two sub-schemes:
     • Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY): Aimed at single mothers, offering financial support, education opportunities, and employment guidance.
     • Sakhi Niwas: Specialized in single women who lack family responsibilities, focusing on economic empowerment and career development.

3. Palna Scheme: SANKALP

   • A microfinance initiative targeting widows and single mothers, providing short-term financial support through loans and interest-free tenure loans.

4. SS/MS. Sackhasha Sackhasha (SS/MS)

   • A program for widow women of armed forces, offering vocational training in subjects like education and technology.

Family Pensions

Family pensions are crucial for supporting widows, especially during the transition into parenthood:

• SS/MS. Sackhasha Sackhasha: Provides financial support to widows of armed forces, encouraging them to pursue careers in various fields and reducing reliance on social security.

Social Assistance Programs

These programs target marginalized groups to provide additional support and opportunities:

1. SS/MS. Sackhasha Sackhasha (SS/MS): As mentioned above, focused on widows of armed forces.
2. SS/MS. Sackhasha Sackhasha: Provides vocational training for women seeking higher education or career advancement.

Pension Rules

Family pension schemes offer financial support to widows, especially during the first five years of parenthood:

• Pension Plan 36 (PP36): A microfinance initiative offering short-term loans for widows and single mothers with no family responsibilities.

Raksha Mantri Ex-Servicemen Welfare Fund

This program supports women of armed forces, aiming to provide financial assistance for education and career development:

• Ex-Servicemen (ESM) Scheme: A one-time grant of Rs 50,000 for widows with educational aspirations.

Conclusion

These government initiatives are pivotal in promoting gender equality and social justice. They address the challenges faced by single mothers, widows, and armed forces women, ensuring their futures are secure and prosperous. By supporting these groups, the government contributes to a more equitable society, empowering future generations.