On December 12, former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal made a significant announcement, revealing the launch of the Mahila Samman Yojana, a new welfare initiative aimed at providing financial support to women in the national capital. Under the scheme, every woman above the age of 18 in Delhi will receive a monthly deposit of Rs 1000 in their accounts. This initiative is designed to offer financial assistance, particularly to women from economically disadvantaged and underprivileged backgrounds. Kejriwal further stated that, if the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is able to retain power in the upcoming elections, the monthly financial aid will be increased to Rs 2100.
This announcement comes at a critical time as the AAP aims to secure its third consecutive term in office, with the current assembly’s term ending on February 23, 2025. The Mahila Samman Yojana is a strategic move by the ruling party, aligning with its continued focus on women’s welfare and empowerment. Earlier in the year, the Delhi government had also proposed a similar initiative under the name Mukhyamantri Mahila Samman Yojana, which was included in the 2024-25 budget with a substantial allocation of Rs 2000 crore. However, the implementation of the scheme had faced delays due to budgetary limitations and various bureaucratic challenges.
In his statement, Kejriwal reaffirmed his commitment to launching the scheme earlier than initially planned, with an emphasis on increasing the amount provided to beneficiaries if the AAP is re-elected. This demonstrates the party's confidence in its governance model and its dedication to improving the living standards of women in Delhi.
The Mahila Samman Yojana is intended to benefit women aged between 18 and 60 years, but it comes with certain eligibility criteria. Women employed in government jobs, pensioners, or those who file income tax returns (ITR) are excluded from the scheme. Additionally, women who own businesses or are not residents of Delhi will also be ineligible. To apply, women will need to provide proof of residence, such as an Aadhaar card or voter ID. This ensures that the scheme is focused on helping those who truly need financial support.
Kejriwal emphasized that the scheme is an important step towards improving the quality of life for women in Delhi, with a particular focus on uplifting economically disadvantaged groups. The initiative aims to alleviate financial pressures on women, offering them some financial independence and security. It is also seen as a crucial part of the party’s election strategy, as it directly addresses the economic challenges faced by women and demonstrates the AAP's commitment to social welfare and empowerment.
With this move, the AAP underscores its ongoing focus on women’s welfare and financial security as a central aspect of its governance model. The Mahila Samman Yojana not only aims to assist women in the capital but also positions the party as a champion of social welfare, particularly in areas where women face systemic disadvantages. By extending this financial support, the AAP hopes to foster a more equitable environment, providing women with better opportunities to thrive. As Delhi prepares for the upcoming elections, this scheme is likely to play a significant role in shaping public perception and influencing voter decisions.
