State PCS - Chhattisgarh (CGPSC)

• 12 Aug 2025

Chhattisgarh’s Mahatari Vandan Yojana

Why in News? 

The Mahatari Vandan Yojana is bringing significant changes in the lives of women in Chhattisgarh by empowering them economically and socially.  

• Currently, over 69.19 lakh women across the state are benefiting from this initiative. 

Key Facts About Mahatari Vandan Yojana 

• Objective: The Mahatari Vandan Yojana aims to empower women by addressing gender discrimination, inequality, improving health and nutrition levels, promoting economic independence, and strengthening women's decision-making roles in families. 
  • It aims to foster a long-term impact on the overall development and well-being of women in Chhattisgarh. 
• Launch: The scheme was launched by the state government of Chhattisgarh in March 2024. 
• Eligibility Criteria: 
  • Married women who are local residents of Chhattisgarh. 
  • Women must be at least 21 years old. 
  • Widows, divorced women, and deserted women are also eligible for the scheme. 
• Assistance Provided: 
  • Eligible women will receive ₹1000 per month via DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer). 
  • Women receiving less than ₹1000 from social assistance programs or various pension schemes will be provided the balance amount to ensure they receive ₹1000. 

State of Women’s Health in Chhattisgarh as per the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), 2020-21 

• Women with BMI Less Than Normal (<18.5 kg/m²): 23.1% of women aged 15-49 in Chhattisgarh have a BMI below the normal threshold. 
• Prevalence of Anemia: 
  • All Women (15-49 years): 60.8% are anemic. 
  • Pregnant Women (15-49 years): 51.8% are anemic.