Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana PMMVY is a flagship maternity benefit scheme launched in 2017 by the Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD). It provides financial assistance to Pregnant Women and Lactating Mothers (PW&LM). The scheme promotes improved nutrition and positive health-seeking behaviour. Integration under Mission Shakti PMMVY was integrated under Mission Shakti from 1 April 2022. The benefit structure was simplified from three instalments to two. Maternity benefits were extended to the second child, provided the child is a girl. Financial Assistance ₹5,000 is provided in two instalments for the first living child. ₹6,000 is provided for the second child if the child is a girl. Benefits are linked to: Early pregnancy registration,Antenatal care, Child immunisation. Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) Financial assistance is transferred directly to beneficiaries' bank accounts through the DBT mechanism. Ensures transparency and timely disbursement of benefits. Special Provisions Fresh eligibility is provided in cases of miscarriage or stillbirth. Financial assistance acts as partial wage compensation, enabling adequate rest before and after childbirth. Achievements (as on 30 April 2026) Total beneficiaries covered: 4.27 crore. Total amount disbursed: ₹20,150 crore. Impact Improved maternal health and nutritional outcomes. Encouraged institutional deliveries. Reduced financial burden on pregnant women. Facilitated access to nutritious food, antenatal check-ups, and medical care. Contributed to safer motherhood and healthier babies. Promotion of Gender Equity Additional incentives for the girl child promote gender equality. Strengthens women's welfare and child development. Small Hydro Power (SHP) Development Scheme Context: The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has organized a national-level seminar on the Small Hydro Power (SHP) Development Scheme in New Delhi. About the Small Hydro Power (SHP) Development Scheme The SHP Development Scheme is a renewable energy initiative implemented by the Central Government to promote the installation of small hydro power projects (with…
