Delhi Chief Minister Atishi on Friday announced that the Mukhya Mantri Mahila Samman Yojana, to provide monthly assistance of Rs 1,000 to women in the city, will be rolled out in the next 10-15 days as the government is working on the registration process. It is estimated that there are 38 lakh women who will be eligible for the scheme. Under the
Atishi said that before the end of the current financial year -- by March 31, 2025 -- women will receive one or two installments under this scheme.
AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal had announced the launch of the scheme on Thursday and promised that the amount would be raised to Rs 2,100 if his party returns to power.
During a press conference here, Atishi said the scheme is a fulfillment of the government's promise to empower women.
"We have kept our promise of providing Rs 1,000 assistance to women. Despite all efforts by the opposition to obstruct this initiative, we have successfully ensured its rollout," she said.
The scheme aims to provide financial independence to women, ensuring they do not have to depend on family members for small personal needs, she added.
Regarding eligibility, Atishi explained that permanent government employees, women who paid income tax in the last financial year and those already receiving any form of pension will not qualify for the benefits. Cleared by the Delhi Cabinet on Thursday, the scheme entails a monthly payment of Rs. 1000 as a direct benefit transfer (DBT) to the beneficiary’s Aadhaar-linked bank account to eligible women beneficiaries living in the city based on certain criteria.
However, certain categories of women are not eligible for this scheme which include current or former permanent government employees, whether in the Central Government, Delhi Government, or MCD, women MPs, MLAs, or Councillors, women who paid income tax in the previous assessment cycle and those who already receiving pensions under Delhi government schemes, such as old-age pensions, widow pensions, or disability pensions.
“All other women aged 18 and above will be entitled to receive Rs 10,000 as an honorarium under this scheme. The notification was issued yesterday evening, and efforts are underway to begin the registration process. We aim to start registrations within the next 7-10 days,” CM Atishi said.
Speaking about other measures taken by the AAP government to empower women, Atishi highlighted the improved quality of education in government schools, which are predominantly attended by girls, ensuring equal opportunities for education.
She also mentioned the provision of free healthcare through Mohalla Clinics, allowing women to access treatment without financial constraints.
Additionally, the government provides free bus travel to women, helping them commute easily for education, jobs, or job searches, she said. In the run for the upcoming Delhi elections, AAP is vying for a third consecutive term, having won 62 out of 70 seats in the last election.