Chhattisgarh Launched ‘Mahatari Gaurav Varsh’ to Empower Women | 12 Mar 2026

Why in News? 

The Government of Chhattisgarh has declared 2026–27 as ‘Mahatari Gaurav Varsh’ (Year of Maternal Pride) to emphasise women’s empowerment, placing women at the centre of the state’s development initiatives and welfare programmes under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai. 

Key Points 

• Mahatari Vandan Scheme: A flagship initiative under this campaign provides ₹1,000 per month through direct benefit transfer (DBT) to about 70 lakh married women in the state, boosting financial confidence and self‑reliance. 
• Focus: The year places women at the centre of state policies, ensuring programmes prioritise their respect, safety, health, education, economic independence, and social dignity. 
  • Over ₹15,595 crore has been disbursed under this scheme so far, including recent instalments benefiting millions of women, who often invest in self‑employment ventures beyond household needs.  
• Success Stories: 
  • In Balod district, widowed women used funds to start vegetable farming, gaining regular income and family support. 
  • Women engaged in rural missions like Bihan have become successful entrepreneurs earning substantial annual incomes.  
  • Women have also taken up modern technology skills, such as drone operation for agricultural use, earning income and respect in their communities. 
• Budgetary Support: The state budget allocates ₹8,245 crore for women and child development, with dedicated provisions for anganwadi nutrition, mission schemes, and infrastructure like Anganwadi centres and Mahatari Sadans. 
  • The government has strengthened women’s safety with One Stop Centres, 181 helplines, and Dial‑112 services, and provides economic support to widows through schemes like Sukhad Sahara. 
• Livelihood Initiatives: Over 42,000 self‑help groups (SHGs) have been given concessional loans, and schemes such as Digital Sakhi, Didi E‑Rickshaw, and Ready to Eat production offer sustainable income to women. 
• Vision 2047: The initiative aligns with the ‘Chhattisgarh Anjor Vision 2047’ and national goals for inclusive and equitable development, positioning empowered women as a key pillar for a prosperous state.