By The Uttar Pradesh government is considering a proposal that could provide financial assistance of up to Rs 50,000 to eligible women, although the final structure of the proposed support has not yet been decided. Officials are examining whether the amount should be transferred directly into beneficiaries’ bank accounts or delivered through a broader package of women-focused welfare programmes.
The proposal is not necessarily limited to a one-time cash payment. Another option under consideration is to strengthen existing schemes covering education, healthcare, skill development and livelihood opportunities, allowing women to receive support under different categories rather than receiving the entire Rs 50,000 in one instalment.
Direct bank transfer among options
One of the proposals being examined is a Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) model, under which eligible women could receive financial assistance directly in their bank accounts.
However, the government has not taken a final decision on either the amount, eligibility criteria or the mechanism through which the proposed assistance would be provided. The eventual framework could combine direct financial support with existing welfare initiatives.
Existing schemes could be expanded
The government is also looking at the possibility of expanding women-oriented programmes already operating in Uttar Pradesh. These include:
- Mukhyamantri Kanya Sumangala Yojana: Provides financial assistance of up to Rs 15,000 to eligible girls at different stages, from birth through education and graduation.
- Rani Lakshmibai Scooty Yojana: Aims to provide scooters to meritorious female students after graduation.
- Nirashrit Mahila Pension Yojana: Provides Rs 3,000 every three months to eligible destitute women, including widows, to support their livelihood.
- Rani Lakshmibai Mahila Evam Bal Samman Kosh: Supports the treatment, rehabilitation and assistance of women and children affected by serious violence, including acid attacks.
- Mukhyamantri Samuhik Vivah Yojana: Provides financial assistance towards the marriage of daughters from economically weaker and destitute families, including daughters of widowed women.
- Self-Help Groups and Lakhpati Didi initiatives: Promote women’s financial independence through self-employment, small businesses and livelihood opportunities.
- Free UP Roadways travel: Women above 60 years of age are eligible for free travel on Uttar Pradesh Roadways buses.
Government examining wider support for women
The proposed assistance is being considered in the broader context of women’s economic and social empowerment. Rather than limiting the initiative to a single cash payment, the government could use existing programmes to provide targeted support in areas such as education, healthcare, employment and skill development.
A direct transfer of up to Rs 50,000 remains another possibility, but the government is yet to finalise how such assistance would be structured or who would qualify for it.
For now, the proposal remains under consideration. The final decision will determine whether the government’s planned intervention takes the form of a direct cash benefit, expanded welfare coverage, or a combination of both.
