The Government of India is actively engaged in implementing diverse initiatives aimed at empowering women. Flagship schemes such as Mission POSHAN, Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY), and Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana underscore the government's dedication to bolstering the health and well-being of women across the nation.

The Vikasit Bharat Sankalp Yatra, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the auspicious occasion of Janjatiya Gaurav Divas on November 15, 2023, from Khunti, Jharkhand, is playing a pivotal role in ensuring that the advantages of these schemes reach all citizens, especially women, emphasizing inclusivity and widespread impact.

Specially equipped IEC Vans for the Yatra, adorned with information in local languages, are contributing to fostering dignity, confidence, and overall well-being among women, reflecting the government's steadfast commitment to societal progress.

During the yatra, an innovative "on-spot registration" drive is being conducted to enrol eligible beneficiaries for various schemes. This proactive approach aims to educate people about the spectrum of available schemes and their associated benefits, encouraging eligible individuals to participate and avail themselves of the relevant programmes.

Government is also conducting the "Swasth Balak Spardha (SBS)" during these Yatras. This initiative recognizes and honours healthy children, aiming to elevate community engagement by emphasizing a positive approach to nutrition.

Another significant aspect of the VBSY is the "Meri Kahani Meri Zubani (MKMZ)" initiative, where beneficiaries share their personal experiences, emphasizing the transformative impact of Government schemes on their lives. Let’s look at some of these stories:

Karma Dechin, a beneficiary of Poshan Abhiyaan shared her story via “Meri Kahani Meri Zubani” during the Vikasit Bharat Sankalp Yatra at Jobrang & Ringyang Gram Panchayat in Arunachal Pradesh. She said that Anganwadi workers visit every month to inform them about the importance of breastfeeding children, measure their growth and provide them with ration too.[1]

Smt Indu from village Kot Bhattian, Pathankot in Punjab, who is a beneficiary of Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY), shared her experience of getting the financial support under this scheme. She said it was her first pregnancy and she received financial assistance for which she was grateful to the Government of India.[2]

Further, Reshma Sable, another beneficiary of the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY), from Ambejavalge village in Dharashiv district, Maharashtra, narrated how the assistance provided under the scheme has helped her get a nutritious diet.

Smt. Niveditha KB of Dambarmattur village in Haveri district, Karnataka said that she has benefited from the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana and that her children were growing up healthy due to the nutritious food provided in Anganwadis.

Smt. Sangeetha of Chatnahalli village of Nyamati taluk in Karnataka said she got Rs 5,000 for her first delivery under PM Matru Vandana Yojana. She said that Asha workers provided nutritious food every month and helped with institutional deliveries.

As the Vikasit Bharat Sankalp Yatra unfolds, these women-oriented welfare schemes stand as a shining testament to the Government's dedication to empowering Nari Shakti.

To read more testimonies of beneficiaries of various schemes, click HERE.

Pragya Paliwal Gaur/Saurabh Singh