Subhadra Yojana, Ladki Bahin Yojana, Gruha Lakshmi: Financial Cost of Women-Centric Cash Schemes

Several states, including Maharashtra and Odisha, have introduced women-centric cash transfer schemes. While benefiting women, these programs also involve considerable financial commitments for state governments.

Subhadra Yojana Phase 3 Details 

Recently, Odisha’s Subhadra Yojana has distributed ₹5,000 to 20 lakh women in its third phase, with over ₹1,000 crore transferred. The program aims to benefit 80 lakh women, with plans to reach 1 crore by 2024.

Let’s now take a look at the costs involved as these programs also involve considerable financial commitments for state governments.

Key Details of Women’s Schemes

Here’s a table summarising the key details of various women-centric cash schemes across different states:

Note: The financial allocations for Maharashtra’s Ladki Bahin Yojana, and West Bengal’s Lakshmir Bhandar are sourced from PRS Legislative Research for the fiscal year 2024-25.

Gruha Lakshmi Yojana’s Budget Share

For Karnataka’s Gruha Lakshmi Yojana, the scheme’s allocation of ₹28,608 crore represents 63% of the total estimated expenditure on social welfare and nutrition for fiscal year 2024-25.

This underscores the significant weight this program carries within the state’s broader budget priorities.

Financial Growth of Women-Centric Schemes

Madhya Pradesh’s Ladli Behena Yojana saw a significant increase in its financial allocation—up 29% from ₹14,716 crore in the previous financial year to ₹18,984 crore for fiscal year 2024-25.

This growth in the scheme’s budget illustrates the expanding financial commitment the state is making to ensure the success and continuation of the program.

Conclusion

Women-centric cash transfer schemes like Subhadra Yojana, Ladki Bahin Yojana, and Gruha Lakshmi Yojana are contributing to the financial empowerment of women across India.

These initiatives provide essential support to women. However, the growing financial commitments to sustain and expand these schemes require careful monitoring. As these schemes evolve, it is crucial to assess their impact on state budgets.