In the Budget, the WCD Ministry received higher allocations for its flagship schemes, such as Saksham Anganwadi and POSHAN 2.0, Mission VATSALYA, and Mission Shakti. The aim is to continue the ministry’s efforts in improving nutrition, child protection, and women’s empowerment.The SAMARTHYA sub-scheme, which supports projects such as women’s hostels, Swadhar Greh, and the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (a maternity support scheme that promotes healthy behavior practices among pregnant women), has been allocated Rs. 2,516 crore, a slight increase from the previous revised Budget of Rs. 2,325 crore.This year, significant focus has been given to Saksham Anganwadi and POSHAN 2.0, which have been allocated Rs. 21,200 crore, to combat malnutrition and support early childhood care.Mission VATSALYA, focusing on child protection services and welfare, will receive Rs. 1,472 crore, matching its previous allocation, while Mission Shakti, divided into SAMBAL and SAMARTHYA sub-schemes, has been allocated Rs. 3,145 crore. The SAMBAL sub-scheme, which includes significant initiatives like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao and One Stop Centres for women’s safety, has been allocated Rs. 629 crore.Additional funds have been provided to the National Institute of Public Cooperation and Child Development (NIPCCD) and the Central Adoption Resource Agency (CARA). The NIPCCD, tasked with research and training in child development, will receive Rs. 88.87 crore, while CARA, responsible for overseeing child adoptions, has been allocated Rs. 11.40 crore.The Nirbhaya Fund, supporting initiatives aimed at enhancing women’s safety and security, received Rs. 500 crore in funding.
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