Marking International Women’s Day, Vishnu Deo Sai, Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh, released the 25th installment of the Mahatari Vandan Yojana, transferring ₹641.58 crore directly to the bank accounts of 69.48 lakh women across the state. The announcement was made during the Mahatari Vandan Sammelan-2026 held at Lal Bahadur Shastri Mini Stadium, where the Chief Minister highlighted the crucial role of women in strengthening society and driving economic development.
Financial Support Strengthening Women’s Empowerment
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said that empowering women socially and economically forms the foundation of a developed state. He emphasized that the state government’s policies are focused on ensuring dignity, welfare, and self-reliance for women.
With the release of the latest installment, the total amount disbursed under the Mahatari Vandan Yojana has reached ₹16,237 crore. According to the Chief Minister, the scheme has evolved beyond a financial assistance programme and has become a major social initiative that boosts confidence and independence among women.
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Scheme Launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi
The Chief Minister recalled that the scheme was launched on March 10, 2024, by Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister of India. The programme guarantees a monthly financial assistance of ₹1,000 to eligible women in the state.
Over the past 25 months, the government has consistently credited the amount into beneficiaries’ accounts. With the latest installment, each beneficiary woman has received a total of ₹25,000 under the scheme.
Budget Allocation for Continuation of the Scheme
To ensure uninterrupted implementation, the state government has earmarked ₹8,200 crore in the current budget for the Mahatari Vandan Yojana. Officials say the funds are helping families meet essential expenses such as children’s education, healthcare, household needs, savings, and self-employment initiatives.
The Chief Minister noted that the assistance has improved economic stability in households and contributed to the broader development of society.
Women Using Funds for Self-Reliance
According to the Chief Minister, women beneficiaries have demonstrated responsible financial management by using the funds wisely. Many have invested in their children’s education, healthcare, savings, or small businesses, while others have launched self-employment ventures to strengthen their families’ financial security.
The government views these outcomes as a major success of the scheme, as it has enabled women to actively contribute to the economic progress of their households.
Focus on Development and Peace in Bastar
The Chief Minister also highlighted development initiatives in the Bastar region, stating that peace and development are gradually replacing the challenges posed by Naxalism due to the efforts of security forces and the leadership of Narendra Modi and Amit Shah.
To rehabilitate families affected by Naxal violence and surrendered militants, the state government has approved 15,000 houses. Various initiatives are also underway to restore essential services in remote areas.
Infrastructure and Women-Centric Initiatives
Under the Chief Minister’s Kanya Vivah Yojana, more than 21,754 marriages have been conducted over the past two years. The government has also approved the construction of 368 Mahatari Sadans across the state, of which 137 have already been completed. These centres will serve as spaces for women’s meetings, training programmes, marketing activities, and community initiatives.
The government is also encouraging women’s self-help groups to increase their income. Around eight lakh women have already achieved the status of “Lakhpati Didis,” and the government aims to significantly increase this number in the coming years.
Boost to Rural Economy and Employment
To expand employment opportunities, women’s self-help groups have resumed the production of ready-to-eat food products. The initiative is being gradually implemented across all districts, providing local job opportunities and strengthening rural economies.
Additionally, the “Lakshmi Sakhi Millet Cart” initiative was launched during the programme by the Women and Child Development Department Chhattisgarh. Under this initiative, rehabilitated women will be trained through agricultural institutions to prepare and sell millet-based food products, creating sustainable livelihoods.
Beneficiaries Share Success Stories
Several beneficiaries shared their success stories during the event. Neetu Sahu from Dhamtari said she used the funds to open Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana accounts for her daughters.
Mithlesh Chaturvedi from Mohla-Manpur-Ambagarh Chowki started an e-rickshaw service after receiving financial support from the scheme following her husband’s death.
Similarly, Nidhi Jaiswal from Surguja launched a beauty parlour called “Nidhi Makeover,” while Anita Sahu from Gaurela-Pendra-Marwahi established a sewing centre. Saraswati Kewat from Janjgir-Champa invested the funds in expanding her family business.
Leaders Attend the Event
Speaking at the programme, Laxmi Rajwade, Minister for Women and Child Development, said that nearly 70 lakh women in the state are benefiting from the scheme. She also highlighted additional initiatives such as the Chhattisgarh Mahila Kosh and Saksham Yojana aimed at promoting self-employment among women.
Several public representatives and officials were present at the event, including Kedar Kashyap, Kiran Dev, and senior administrative officers.
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