New Chapter of Empowerment in Chhattisgarh Through Women and Child Development Schemes: Minister Laxmi Rajwade

Raipur, Jan 2026 : Chhattisgarh’s Minister for Women and Child Development, Laxmi Rajwade, highlighted the state’s transformative efforts in women’s and child empowerment during a press conference held at the Auditorium of Samvaad today. Speaking to journalists, she said that over the past two years, the Chhattisgarh government has undertaken historic initiatives through the Women and Child Development Department to bring about positive and tangible changes in the lives of women, children, and vulnerable groups. The goal of these schemes is to ensure dignity, health, safety, and economic self-reliance for women.

Minister Rajwade noted that under the Mahtari Vandan Yojana, over 6.9 million women have directly benefited, with more than ₹14,000 crore transferred to their accounts so far. She emphasized that the social impact of the scheme is evident as a large number of women are now playing independent roles in family and financial decision-making. Similarly, under the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandan Yojana, 4.81 lakh women have received support exceeding ₹237 crore, earning Chhattisgarh the third rank at the national level for scheme implementation.

Addressing the issue of malnutrition, Minister Rajwade said that the state has made decisive progress. Comparing November 2023 with November 2025, there has been a significant reduction in stunted, wasted, and underweight children. Over 19 lakh beneficiaries are receiving supplementary nutrition, with women’s self-help groups ensuring transparent and quality distribution.

On women’s safety and protection, she highlighted that across all districts, thousands of women and children have received immediate assistance through Sakhi One-Stop Centers, Women’s Helpline 181, and Child Helpline 1098. Chhattisgarh has also been recognized among leading states in child protection services, adoption, foster care, and resolution of judicial cases.

Minister Rajwade further detailed initiatives to strengthen departmental efficiency, including upgradation of Anganwadi centers, new recruitments, digital attendance systems, and an e-recruitment portal. Under the Mukhyamantri Kanya Vivah Yojana, thousands of daughters have had their weddings conducted with dignity and respect.

Concluding, Minister Laxmi Rajwade stated that under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai, the state government remains committed to the holistic development of women and children. The initiatives of the Women and Child Development Department continue to advance Chhattisgarh toward becoming a safe, empowered, and inclusive state.