Union Budget 2025-26: Focus on Women and Children
The Union Budget for 2025-26, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, marks a significant shift in the government’s approach towards social welfare. The budget emphasizes increased allocations for women and child development programs, alongside relief measures for senior citizens and vulnerable communities. This article delves into the key highlights of the budget, focusing on the enhanced funding for essential programs aimed at improving the lives of women and children across India.
Increased Funding for Women and Child Development
The Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD) has received a substantial budget allocation of ₹26,889.69 crore for the upcoming fiscal year. This figure represents a notable increase from the revised estimate of ₹23,182.98 crore for 2024-25. The largest portion of this budget, amounting to ₹21,960 crore, is earmarked for the Saksham Anganwadi and POSHAN 2.0 programs. These initiatives are designed to combat malnutrition and enhance early childhood care.
Finance Minister Sitharaman highlighted that these programs provide vital nutritional support to over 8 crore children, 1 crore pregnant and lactating women, and 20 lakh adolescent girls, particularly in aspirational districts and the Northeast region. The government plans to enhance cost norms for these programs, ensuring that they can effectively meet the needs of these vulnerable populations. This increased funding reflects the government’s commitment to improving health and nutrition outcomes for women and children, which are critical for the country’s overall development.
Tax Relief for Senior Citizens and Vulnerable Groups
In addition to the focus on women and children, the budget also addresses the financial concerns of senior citizens and vulnerable communities. One of the key announcements was the tax exemption on withdrawals from old National Savings Scheme (NSS) accounts. Starting from August 29, 2024, individuals making withdrawals from these accounts, which no longer accrue interest, will not be subject to taxation. This move aims to provide financial relief to senior citizens who rely on these savings for their livelihood.
Furthermore, Sitharaman proposed extending similar tax benefits to NPS Vatsalya accounts, aligning them with the benefits available to regular National Pension Scheme (NPS) accounts. This extension is expected to enhance the financial security of vulnerable groups, ensuring they receive the necessary support during their retirement years. By addressing these financial concerns, the government aims to foster a more inclusive society where all citizens can enjoy a dignified life.
Strengthening Child Protection Initiatives
The budget also places a strong emphasis on child protection through the Mission Vatsalya program. The allocation for this flagship child protection scheme has increased to ₹1,500 crore, up from ₹1,391 crore in the previous year. Mission Vatsalya focuses on providing institutional and family-based care for vulnerable children. It supports various initiatives, including sponsorships, foster care, adoption, and emergency outreach services like childline and child tracking systems.
This increased funding is crucial for enhancing the safety and well-being of children in need. By investing in child protection, the government aims to create a safer environment for children, ensuring they have access to the care and support they require. The focus on child protection reflects a broader commitment to safeguarding the rights and welfare of the most vulnerable members of society.
Empowering Women Through Targeted Programs
Women’s empowerment is another critical area highlighted in the budget. The Mission Shakti program has received an allocation of ₹3,150 crore, which encompasses two major components: Sambal and Samarthya. Sambal includes initiatives like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, One Stop Centres, Women’s Helpline, and Mahila Police Volunteers, all aimed at enhancing the safety and security of women. Meanwhile, Samarthya focuses on programs such as Swadhar Greh for women in distress, the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY), Working Women’s Hostels, and the National Creche Scheme.
Additionally, the Nirbhaya Fund, which finances safety initiatives for women, has been allocated ₹30 crore. These targeted investments reflect the government’s commitment to creating a safer and more supportive environment for women. By empowering women through various initiatives, the government aims to promote gender equality and ensure that women can participate fully in society.
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