A look at programs and schemes improving the socio-economic status of women in the region

In recent times, there has been increased attention on empowering women in the historically turbulent region of Jammu and Kashmir through a range of government initiatives. The primary goal of these programs is to improve the socio-economic standing of women by equipping them with the essential resources and assistance needed for their advancement. Recent statistics from the Ministry of Women and Child Development and the Jammu and Kashmir Directorate of Economics and Statistics highlight the notable positive outcomes yielded by these initiatives.

1. Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP)

The Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) initiative, put in place in 2015, seeks to combat the decreasing child sex ratio and advocate for the education and empowerment of girls. This scheme has been successfully executed in Jammu and Kashmir, with a focus on increasing awareness, enhancing educational opportunities, and guaranteeing the well-being and security of girls.

Impact:

• Improved Child Sex Ratio: According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), the child sex ratio in Jammu and Kashmir improved from 892 girls per 1000 boys in 2015-16 to 919 girls per 1000 boys in 2019-20.
• Increased School Enrolment: The Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) for girls in secondary education has seen a significant rise, from 67.5% in 2015-16 to 77.4% in 2019-20 (source: Ministry of Education, Government of India).

2. Ladli Beti Scheme

The Ladli Beti Scheme aims to safeguard the future of girls from low-income families by offering financial support. Through this initiative, a set amount is deposited by the government into the girls’ bank accounts, which they can utilize once they reach 21 years of age.

Impact:

• Financial Security: As per the Jammu and Kashmir Directorate of Economics and Statistics, over 150,000 girls have benefited from the Ladli Beti Scheme, ensuring their financial stability and encouraging higher education and delayed marriages.
• Increased Birth Registration: The program has resulted in an increase in the registration of births, guaranteeing that girls receive the benefits they are entitled to from the government.

3. State Marriage Assistance Scheme (SMAS)

The State Marriage Assistance Scheme (SMAS) offers monetary support to families with financial hardships for the marriage of their daughters. This one-time assistance aims to ease the financial responsibility of covering wedding costs.

Impact:

• Social Security: According to government data, more than 12,000 girls have received support from SMAS, which has helped alleviate financial burdens and decreased the economic challenges linked to marriage.
• Reduction in Child Marriage: The scheme has led to a decrease in the rates of child marriage, supporting the welfare and future opportunities of young women.

4. Women’s Helpline (181)

The Women’s Helpline (181) provides instant help to women experiencing violence or distress. They offer support such as rescue, medical assistance, legal aid, and counselling.

Impact:

• Increased Reporting of Crimes: The helpline has led to a 25% increase in the reporting of domestic violence cases since its inception, according to data from the Jammu and Kashmir Police Department.
• Enhanced Legal Support: Many women have received timely legal aid and support, contributing to a safer environment for women in the region.

5. Umeed Scheme

The Umeed Scheme, a component of the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM), seeks to enhance the economic prospects of women through the encouragement of self-employment and entrepreneurial ventures. This is accomplished by establishing and bolstering Women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) through training, access to credit, and opportunities to enter the market.

Impact:

• Economic Empowerment: Over 60,000 women have been trained under the Umeed Scheme, leading to the establishment of more than 15,000 SHGs (source: Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India).
• Increased Income Levels: Data shows that women involved in SHGs have experienced a 40% increase in their income levels, contributing to poverty alleviation and economic stability.

6. Saath Initiative

The Saath Initiative is dedicated to providing women with skill development and vocational training, aimed at improving their ability to find employment and develop entrepreneurial skills.

Impact:

• Employment Opportunities: The Saath Initiative has provided vocational training to over 25,000 women, with a significant number finding employment in various sectors (source: Jammu and Kashmir Skill Development Mission).
• Entrepreneurial Ventures: Numerous small businesses run by women have been established as a result of the initiative, fostering a culture of entrepreneurship.

Conclusion

The government programs in Jammu and Kashmir have significantly advanced in enhancing the socio-economic status of women in the area. Initiatives such as BBBP, Ladli Beti, SMAS, and others have not only offered financial stability and educational prospects but also empowered women to influence their own lives and play a role in the progress of their communities.

The most recent data highlights the effectiveness of these programs, showing advancements in gender equality, higher school attendance rates, improved financial stability, and increased economic involvement of women. As these efforts progress and grow, they offer the potential to change the lives of women in Jammu and Kashmir, laying the groundwork for a fairer and more prosperous future.

Sources:

• Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India
• Jammu and Kashmir Directorate of Economics and Statistics
• National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5)
• Ministry of Education, Government of India
• Jammu and Kashmir Police Department
• Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India
• Jammu and Kashmir Skill Development Mission

The writer is a Ph.D. Scholar, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi

By Farheen Farid