8 March, 2025; On the occasion of International Women’s Day, the Delhi unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is set to launch the Mahila Samriddhi Scheme, fulfilling a major poll promise. This initiative aims to provide financial assistance to economically weaker women in the national capital.
Key Features of the Mahila Samriddhi Scheme
The scheme targets women aged between 18 and 60 years, with an annual family income of less than ₹3 lakh. Eligible beneficiaries will receive a monthly financial aid of ₹2,500. This initiative is expected to benefit around 20 lakh women across Delhi, empowering them financially and improving their quality of life.
However, the scheme comes with certain exclusions. Government employees and those already receiving other forms of financial aid from the government will not be eligible to avail of the benefits under this scheme.
Political Reactions and Implementation Challenges
The announcement of the Mahila Samriddhi Scheme has stirred political reactions in the capital. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has welcomed the move but has urged for swift and effective implementation, ensuring that beneficiaries receive their payments without delays or bureaucratic hurdles.
On the other hand, the BJP has used this opportunity to criticize AAP, accusing the party of failing to fulfill its own promises, particularly in Punjab, where AAP is in power. BJP leaders argue that while they are taking concrete steps to support women in Delhi, AAP has been unable to deliver on similar commitments elsewhere.
Significance of the Initiative
The launch of the Mahila Samriddhi Scheme underscores the growing political focus on women’s welfare and economic empowerment. By providing direct financial assistance, the scheme seeks to alleviate economic hardships faced by women from low-income groups and offer them greater financial independence.
As the scheme rolls out, its effectiveness in reaching the intended beneficiaries and its impact on women’s economic empowerment will be closely watched. The political battle over welfare initiatives in Delhi is expected to continue, with both BJP and AAP seeking to win the support of women voters ahead of future elections.
