In a bid to foster gender equality and dignify Nari Shakti, PM Modi’s government has undertaken ambitious initiatives to offer empowered and fulfilling lives to women.
Recognising the pivotal role that safe and stable housing plays in the socio-economic upliftment of women, the government launched PM Awas Yojana—a visionary initiative guaranteeing Housing for All. With a dedicated focus on women, the scheme acknowledges their unique challenges and vulnerabilities. It aims to empower women by making them homeowners, providing a sense of security and ownership that can catalyse positive change in their lives.
One of the key features of PMAY is the provision of joint ownership of houses to women. This step not only recognises women as equal partners in the family but also ensures that they have a tangible asset in their name. Over 4 crore houses have been sanctioned under the Yojana, and 70% of these are owned by women beneficiaries, who are fondly called Lakhpati Didis by the Prime Minister. The government ensures that no woman is left behind, especially widows, single women, and those coming from marginalised communities.
This move is particularly significant in a country where women often face challenges in asserting property rights. By encouraging joint ownership, PM Modi's government is fostering a culture of financial security among women.
Moreover, the government has taken steps to ensure that the benefits of PMAY reach women in both rural and urban areas. Also, the scheme is not limited to constructing new houses but also includes the enhancement and expansion of existing homes. This inclusivity recognises the diversity of women's living conditions and addresses the varied challenges they face, ensuring that no woman is left behind in the journey towards secure housing.
Beyond just providing physical shelter, PM Modi’s government has also implemented initiatives to improve the overall living conditions of women. Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, for example, has had a profound impact on women's lives by ensuring access to clean and safe sanitation facilities. Today the country is 100% ODF-free—a feat that underscores not only the safety and well-being but also dignity of women. 100% electrification of villages under SAUBHAGYA has made kerosene lamps a thing of the past.
Additionally, government efforts like Jal Jeevan Mission, providing over 13 crore tap connections today, and PM Ujjwala’s 9.6 crore LPG connections have freed women from drudgery and health-related crises. Now, women don’t have to walk distances to lakes or borewells for water or inhale smoke from wood-fired kitchens.
Furthering their participation in the economic sphere are formidable schemes like PM Mudra and Jan Dhan Yojana—promoting not only financial inclusion but also financial independence of women.
The success of these initiatives is evident in the transformative stories of women who have benefited from the government's efforts. Women who were once confined to insecure and inadequate living conditions are now proud homeowners, contributing to the socio-economic development of their communities. The positive ripple effect of these initiatives is not only improving the lives of individual women but is also creating a more inclusive and equitable society.
PM Modi has always believed in the force of Nari Shakti. Hence his government’s commitment to ensuring housing security for women is key in moving towards the goal of gender equality and inclusive development. As these efforts continue to unfold, it is clear that the government's vision for a secure and empowered India includes every woman having a place to call home—a place where she can build her dreams and contribute to the progress of the nation.
