Nilanjan
The Ladli Bahna Yojana in Madhya Pradesh continues to champion the cause of women’s empowerment with a range of initiatives. Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, speaking at the state-level Ladli Bahna Sammelan in Indore, emphasized the government’s commitment to creating opportunities and support systems for women. The Ladli Bahna Yojana, which has now been expanded to include married women up to 21 years of age, is part of a larger effort to uplift women and daughters, provide welfare assistance, and promote education and health.
This blog explores the expanded Ladli Bahna Yojana along with other significant measures, such as reservation in police and teacher recruitments, the Mukhya Mantri Kanya Vivah/Nikah Yojana, and support for the marriage of needy daughters.
Expansion of Ladli Bahna Yojana
Chief Minister Chouhan announced a crucial modification to the Ladli Bahna Yojana, reducing the minimum age for marriageable women from 23 to 21 years. This change aims to empower women by allowing them to make informed decisions about their lives and aspirations. Additionally, women from families with tractors have been included in the scheme, broadening its reach and inclusivity. Eligible women can submit their applications starting from July 25, ensuring that they can avail themselves of the scheme’s benefits.
Reservation for Women in Recruitment
To provide greater gender equality in the workforce, the Madhya Pradesh government has implemented reservation policies in police and teacher recruitments. Women now enjoy a 30 percent reservation in police recruitment and a 50 percent reservation in teacher recruitments. These measures create avenues for women to enter traditionally male-dominated sectors, enabling them to contribute to law enforcement and education.
Mukhya Mantri Kanya Vivah/Nikah Yojana
As part of their commitment to supporting the marriage of young women, the government introduced the Mukhya Mantri Kanya Vivah/Nikah Yojana. Under this scheme, the state provides financial assistance and resources for the marriage of eligible daughters. Needy daughters receive assistance that covers wedding expenses, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder their special day. This initiative promotes equality and alleviates the burden on families facing economic challenges.
Promoting Social Revolution and Empowerment
Chief Minister Chouhan emphasized that these initiatives, along with others, form part of a larger social revolution aimed at empowering women in Madhya Pradesh. The government’s comprehensive efforts include providing financial aid through the Mukhyamantri Ladli Bahna Yojana, offering loans to self-help groups under the Livelihood Mission, and offering reduced registry fees for properties registered in the name of women. The long-term vision is to increase women’s monthly income to Rs. 10,000 within the next five years, promoting economic independence and enabling women to lead dignified lives.
Conclusion
Madhya Pradesh’s Ladli Bahna Yojana, expanded to include married women up to 21 years, is a testament to the government’s commitment to women’s empowerment. The inclusion of women in various sectors through reservation policies, the Mukhya Mantri Kanya Vivah/Nikah Yojana, and other support programs reflect the government’s dedication to promoting gender equality and inclusivity.
By fostering a social revolution and providing financial assistance, Madhya Pradesh is empowering women to realize their full potential, contribute to society, and lead empowered and dignified lives. These initiatives are crucial steps towards building a more equitable and progressive society.
