The Indira Gandhi Pyari Behna Sukh Samman Nidhi Yojana is a landmark initiative launched by the Government of Himachal Pradesh aimed at empowering women through financial assistance. Announced by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on March 4, 2024, this scheme underscores the state’s commitment to enhancing the socio-economic status of its female residents.
Objective of the Scheme
The primary goal of the Indira Gandhi Pyari Behna Sukh-Samman Nidhi Yojana is to provide financial support to women aged between 18 and 60 years. By offering a monthly stipend, the scheme aims to promote financial independence, elevate the standard of living, and ensure a dignified life for women across Himachal Pradesh.
Key Features
- Monthly Financial Assistance: Eligible women receive a stipend of ₹1,500 per month, translating to ₹18,000 annually. This initiative is projected to benefit over five lakh women, with an estimated annual expenditure of ₹800 crore.
- Eligibility Criteria:
- Women aged between 18 and 60 years.
- Exclusions include:
- Income tax payers.
- Female monks residing permanently in monasteries.
- Family members of employees and pensioners of central and state governments, Panchayati Raj institutions, local bodies, and public sector undertakings.
- Contractual employees, outsourced employees, daily wagers, part-time employees, ex-servicemen and their widows.
- Anganwadi workers and helpers, Asha workers, mid-day meal workers, multi-task workers, and beneficiaries of social security pensions.
Implementation and Progress
The scheme has been rolled out in phases to ensure systematic implementation
- Initial Disbursement: In June 2024, the Chief Minister disbursed ₹3.27 crore to 7,280 women in the Haroli region of Una district, covering a three-month installment of ₹4,500 each. Statewide, approximately 48,000 women received their first three-month installment, with a budget allocation of ₹23 crore for this phase.
- Statewide Expansion: The government plans to extend the scheme to all districts in a phased manner, ensuring that eligible women across Himachal Pradesh benefit from this initiative.
Application Process
Eligible women can apply for the scheme through the following steps
- Form Collection: Visit the nearest Tehsil Welfare Office to obtain the application form.
- Form Submission: Fill in the required details and attach necessary documents. Submit the completed form at the same office before the specified deadline.
- Verification: Submitted applications undergo verification by designated officials. Upon approval, beneficiaries start receiving the stipend directly into their bank accounts.
Challenges and Political Dynamics
The scheme’s announcement and implementation have been accompanied by political debates
- Model Code of Conduct (MCC): Following the scheme’s announcement, the Election Commission directed the Himachal Pradesh government to halt the filling of new application forms during the MCC period, acting on a complaint by the opposition party.
- Opposition’s Stance: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) raised concerns about the timing and execution of the scheme, suggesting potential political motivations. In response, the Communist Party of India (Marxist) supported the Congress-led government’s initiative, emphasizing its pre-election promise to empower women.
Government’s Commitment
Despite challenges, the Himachal Pradesh government remains steadfast in its commitment to women’s welfare:
- Old Pension Scheme Restoration: The government reinstated the old pension scheme, benefiting approximately 1.36 lakh state employees, showcasing its dedication to fulfilling electoral promises.
- Combating Corruption: Chief Minister Sukhu emphasized the administration’s efforts to curb corruption, ensuring that the benefits of the scheme reach the intended recipients without hindrance.
Impact on Women’s Empowerment
The Indira Gandhi Pyari Behna Sukh-Samman Nidhi Yojana is more than just a financial aid program; it symbolizes a broader commitment to women’s empowerment.
- Financial Independence: The monthly stipend enables women to manage personal expenses, invest in small businesses, or contribute to household needs, fostering a sense of independence.
- Social Recognition: By naming the scheme after former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, the government acknowledges the pivotal role of women in society and politics, inspiring beneficiaries to aspire for greater roles in various sectors.
- Economic Boost: Injecting funds directly into the hands of women can stimulate local economies, as increased purchasing power leads to higher demand for goods and services.
Future Prospects
The success of the scheme hinges on continuous monitoring, transparent implementation, and addressing challenges promptly:
- Monitoring and Evaluation: Establishing robust mechanisms to track the disbursement and utilization of funds ensures that the scheme achieves its intended outcomes.
- Feedback Mechanisms: Incorporating feedback from beneficiaries can help refine the scheme, making it more responsive to their needs.
- Capacity Building: Alongside financial assistance, the government can introduce skill development programs to enhance women’s employability and entrepreneurial capabilities.
In conclusion, the Indira Gandhi Pyari Behna Sukh-Samman Nidhi Yojana represents a significant stride towards women’s empowerment in Himachal Pradesh. By providing consistent financial support, the scheme aims to uplift the socio-economic