Two Years of Mahtari Vandan Yojana: Financial Security Reaches 68 Lakh Women in Chhattisgarh
Raipur (Economy India): The Chhattisgarh government’s flagship women-centric welfare scheme, Mahtari Vandan Yojana, has completed two years, emerging as a key pillar of financial security and empowerment for women across the state. Launched to provide direct monthly financial assistance, the scheme has evolved beyond income support to become a symbol of dignity, confidence, and self-reliance for millions of women.
The initiative was formally launched on March 10, 2024, with the first instalment released by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, the scheme has been implemented with a strong focus on transparency, inclusion, and last-mile delivery through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
₹15,595 Crore Transferred Directly to Women Beneficiaries
On January 30, Chief Minister Sai released the 24th instalment of the scheme from Narayanpur district, transferring over ₹641 crore directly into the bank accounts of 68.47 lakh women beneficiaries.
Since its inception, a cumulative amount of more than ₹15,595 crore has been credited to beneficiaries’ accounts, highlighting the scale and fiscal commitment of the programme.
Eligible women receive ₹1,000 per month, transferred directly to their bank accounts, ensuring financial support without intermediaries.
Boost to Confidence, Household Security, and Decision-Making
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai stated that Mahtari Vandan Yojana has laid a strong foundation for women’s self-reliance. Regular financial assistance has enhanced women’s confidence and strengthened their role in household and social decision-making.
The DBT mechanism has ensured uninterrupted delivery of benefits even in remote and Left-Wing Extremism-affected districts, reinforcing trust in governance systems.
Women beneficiaries report improved ability to manage household expenses, healthcare needs, children’s education, and emergency costs. Many have also adopted savings habits and long-term financial planning.
Encouraging Micro-Entrepreneurship Among Women
The scheme has also catalysed grassroots entrepreneurship, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas. Beneficiaries are using the monthly assistance to start small ventures such as:
- Artificial jewellery businesses
- Papad and food processing units
- Tailoring and beauty services
- Small retail and home-based enterprises
These activities are contributing to household incomes and fostering economic independence.
Effective Implementation in Remote and Tribal Areas
Mahtari Vandan Yojana is being effectively implemented even in districts such as Sukma, Bijapur, Kanker, Dantewada, and Narayanpur, demonstrating the reach of welfare governance in challenging regions.
Under the Niyad Nella Nar Yojana, an additional 7,763 women have recently been brought under the scheme, expanding coverage further.
Government Reaffirms Commitment to Women Empowerment
Women and Child Development Minister Laxmi Rajwade said the scheme, inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision and implemented under Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai’s leadership, is giving Chhattisgarh a distinct identity in the field of women empowerment.
She emphasized that regular financial support has enhanced women’s social participation and dignity, and directed officials to ensure timely and transparent delivery of benefits to every eligible woman.
A Welfare Model Focused on Dignity and Inclusion
As Mahtari Vandan Yojana completes two years, it stands as a notable example of direct welfare delivery, financial inclusion, and women-led development, reinforcing the state’s commitment to inclusive growth and social security.
— Economy India
