Uttar Pradesh: Before the assembly elections in Uttar Pradesh, Yogi government is preparing to bring a big scheme for women. The objective of this scheme, proposed on the lines of employment-based economic assistance schemes implemented in the neighboring state of Bihar, is said to be to make women financially self-reliant. Under this, a blueprint is being prepared to provide financial assistance up to Rs 50 thousand to the eligible women.
Women’s money can be received in three stages
According to the proposed scheme, women can get this amount in three phases. There is a preparation to give Rs 20 thousand as the first installment. After this, the remaining Rs 30 thousand can be given in installments of Rs 10 thousand each. Depending on how the woman utilizes the initial assistance, a decision can be taken to release further installments.
Will get help for self employment
The objective of the scheme is to provide economic base to women to start self-employment. Beneficiary women can start their own small business with this amount or can develop a source of income by joining self-help groups. Preparations are underway to provide the benefits of the scheme to eligible women in rural and urban areas. At the departmental level, it has come to light that an outline has to be prepared regarding eligibility, application process and other rules. There is a plan to send the assistance amount directly to the bank accounts of the beneficiary women. This will help in eliminating the role of middlemen through direct benefit transfer.
Important plan from election point of view
Let us tell you, the role of women voters is becoming increasingly important in Uttar Pradesh. In such a situation, the scheme of direct financial assistance for women before the elections is being linked to the government’s strategy. Political analysts believe that the financial help given to the woman in the family can impact the decisions of the entire family.
There is also talk of giving special attention to Dalit and backward class women in the proposed scheme. However, an official announcement regarding the final eligibility and implementation of the scheme is awaited.
Additional budget for women welfare
The government has made a provision of additional amount of Rs 1,094.40 crore in the supplementary budget for schemes related to women welfare. This includes Rs 930 crore for destitute women pension and Rs 110 crore for Mukhyamantri Bal Seva Yojana. Apart from this, a provision of Rs 54.30 crore has been made for Rani Laxmibai Mahila and Bal Samman Kosh and Rs 100 crore for free bus travel for women above 60 years of age.