NEW DELHI, Jun 9: The Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD) has reaffirmed its commitment to improving maternal and child health through the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY), a flagship maternity benefit programme that has supported over 4.27 crore women across the country since its launch in 2017.
The scheme, aimed at providing financial assistance to Pregnant Women and Lactating Mothers (PW&LM), promotes positive health-seeking behaviour, better nutrition, and institutional healthcare during pregnancy and childbirth.
In a statement issued here, the ministry stated that since its integration under the umbrella of Mission Shakti on April 1, 2022, PMMVY has undergone key reforms to enhance its reach and effectiveness. The scheme was streamlined from three instalments to two, while maternity benefits were extended to cover the second child if the child is a girl, reinforcing the government’s commitment to gender equity.
Under PMMVY, eligible women receive financial assistance of Rs 5,000 in two instalments for the first living child and Rs 6,000 for the second child if the newborn is a girl. The benefits are linked to important maternal and child healthcare milestones, including early pregnancy registration, antenatal care, and immunisation.
The scheme utilises the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mechanism to ensure transparent and timely transfer of funds directly into beneficiaries’ bank accounts. It also incorporates provisions allowing fresh eligibility in cases of miscarriage or stillbirth, making the programme more inclusive and responsive to women’s healthcare needs.
According to official data, PMMVY has made a significant impact nationwide, with 4.27 crore beneficiaries receiving assistance as of April 30, 2026, while a total of Rs 20,150 crore has been disbursed under the scheme since its inception.
Officials said the programme has transformed the lives of women, particularly those facing financial hardships and limited access to healthcare. The financial assistance has enabled beneficiaries to access nutritious food, undergo regular antenatal check-ups, and obtain essential medical care without additional financial strain.
The ministry noted that the scheme has played a vital role in improving maternal well-being, encouraging institutional deliveries, and reducing health risks associated with pregnancy and childbirth. Additional incentives for the girl child have also contributed to strengthening gender-sensitive welfare measures.
Reiterating its commitment to maternal and child welfare, the Ministry of Women and Child Development said it will continue to strengthen implementation mechanisms and expand outreach efforts to ensure that every eligible woman benefits from the scheme, in line with the vision of a healthier, empowered, and inclusive India.
(UNI)
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