Delhi: The Delhi government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, has launched four significant initiatives aimed at strengthening the economic, social, and safety aspects of women’s lives. These schemes — Saheli Smart Pink Card, Lakhpati Bitiya Scheme, LPG DBT Assistance, and Meri Poonji‑Mera Adhikar — are designed to uplift women across the National Capital. With a focus on empowerment, inclusion, and financial security, the government aims to ensure that every woman and girl in Delhi has access to opportunities and protection.
Saheli Smart Pink Card: Free Travel for Women
To promote safety and ease of commuting for women, the Saheli Smart Pink Card has been introduced. Through this card, women can travel free of cost on Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) buses.
- The card aligns with the One Nation, One Card vision for seamless travel.
- It reduces travel expenses and enhances convenience for women.
- By ensuring safe and affordable public transport, this initiative fosters independence and confidence among female commuters.
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Direct Benefit Transfer for LPG and PNG Users
In a major relief move for households, the Delhi government has announced Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) assistance for LPG and PNG consumers during festive occasions like Holi and Diwali.
- Each eligible consumer will receive a ₹853 direct credit to their bank account linked with Aadhaar.
- Women beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana will receive an additional ₹553.
- Approximately ₹130 crore has already been transferred directly to women’s accounts.
- This financial assistance helps with increased household expenses during festivals and promotes transparency and financial autonomy for women.
Lakhpati Bitiya Scheme: Securing a Girl Child’s Future
The Lakhpati Bitiya Scheme is a landmark initiative focused on securing the financial future of daughters from birth through graduation.
- The government will deposit ₹61,000 in phases into a girl’s account.
- With interest, this amount will grow to approximately ₹1.25 lakh by the time she completes her degree.
- The entire process will be digital and transparent, preventing delays or leakage.
- A budget provision of ₹128 crore has been allocated for this scheme.
- Orphaned girls and those living in childcare institutions are eligible for inclusion under this program.
This initiative reinforces the message that every daughter in Delhi should be educated and empowered to achieve her full potential.
Meri Poonji‑Mera Adhikar: Direct Transfer of Pending Benefits
Under the Meri Poonji‑Mera Adhikar scheme, pending funds under the previous Ladli scheme are being directly credited to the bank accounts of eligible girl children.
- Around 1.75 lakh girls have been identified for benefits.
- In the first phase, 30,000 girls will receive approximately ₹90 crore.
- In the second phase, 40,000 girls will receive an additional ₹100 crore via DBT.
This step highlights the government’s commitment to ensuring that the rights and entitlements of girl children are fulfilled without delay.
Empowering Women for a Stronger Society
With these four initiatives, the Delhi government has taken a strong stand on women’s empowerment and gender equality. By providing financial assistance, promoting safe mobility, and securing the future of girl children, the government is working to transform empowerment from a slogan into a reality.
These schemes not only support women economically but also strengthen their confidence, independence, and participation in all spheres of life — contributing to a more inclusive and progressive Delhi.
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