Sthree Suraksha Scheme in Kerala

• 16 Feb 2026

Why in News? 

The Government of Kerala has launched the Sthree Suraksha Scheme to provide monthly financial assistance to unemployed women and transgender women in the state. 

Key Points: 

• Scheme: The Sthree Suraksha Scheme is a state-level social security initiative designed to provide financial assistance to economically vulnerable unemployed women and transgender women. 
  • Eligible beneficiaries receive ₹1,000 per month as direct financial assistance, credited to their bank accounts through the state’s social security pension system. 
• Target Group: The scheme primarily benefits homemakers and unemployed women who are not covered under any existing social welfare pension schemes. 
• Eligibility: Applicants must be permanent residents of Kerala, aged between 35 and 60 years, unemployed, belonging to Antyodaya Anna Yojana (Yellow Card) or Priority Household (Pink Card) ration card categories, and should not be beneficiaries of other welfare pensions. 
  • Applications are submitted through Local Self-Government Institutions (Panchayats, Municipalities, and Corporations) and are subject to verification by local authorities. 
• Mode of Transfer: Financial assistance is provided through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to ensure transparency and timely disbursement. 
  • The scheme is funded by the Government of Kerala as part of its social security and gender welfare initiatives. 
• Inclusion of Transgender: Their inclusion reflects the state’s commitment to social justice and inclusive welfare policies. 
• Mechanism: Beneficiary lists are verified at the local body level to prevent duplication and ensure that only eligible applicants receive benefits. 
• Significance: The scheme strengthens Kerala’s social protection framework, promotes women’s economic security, and contributes to gender-inclusive development. 

Read More: Transgender, Direct Benefit Transfer