New Delhi: Chief minister Atishi on Friday announced that registrations for the Mukhyamantri Mahila Samman Yojana are expected to begin within 10 days. The scheme aims to initially provide ₹1,000 per month to women above 18 years of age in Delhi and then increase to ₹2,100.
At a press conference, Atishi said, "Yesterday morning, the Delhi govt's cabinet made a significant decision by approving the Mukhyamantri Mahila Samman Yojana. The scheme was passed by the cabinet last night, and the decision was notified by the evening."
"Despite several conspiracies by our opponents to obstruct this initiative, Delhi govt, true to its word under Kejriwal's leadership, has delivered on this commitment," she added.
As per the cabinet's decision, all women who are residents of Delhi as of Dec 12, 2024, and are registered voters, will be eligible for the benefits of the scheme. However, certain categories of women are not eligible to avail the monthly financial assistance. These include current or former permanent govt employees. Women who are or were MPs, MLAs, or councillors and who paid income tax in the previous assessment cycle are also not included. Additionally, women already receiving pensions under Delhi govt schemes, such as old-age pensions, widow pensions, or disability pensions, are excluded too.
"All other women aged 18 and above will be entitled to receive ₹1,000 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 seven to 10 days," Atishi said.
The CM further stated that the scheme had been introduced because Delhi govt recognised the challenges faced by women, especially those who were not financially independent. "Women, regardless of their age, often have to depend on men for their minor expenses. As children, they rely on their fathers, as adults on their husbands, and in old age on their sons. Delhi govt, under the guidance of Kejriwal, is perhaps the only govt that truly understands the struggles of women".
Atishi added that this initiative was not an isolated step toward empowering women. "Over the past decade, the elected govt of Delhi has consistently worked for the welfare of women and girls."
