Budget 2025: The Union Budget for 2025-26 is on the horizon, raising significant questions about the government’s continuing commitment to women’s empowerment. As we approach the Lok Sabha elections in 2024, the pivotal role of women in the electoral process has demonstrated that effective implementation of women-centric schemes can have far-reaching effects, not only socially but politically as well. This article explores the successes of past initiatives, expectations for the upcoming budget, and the overarching impact of women’s empowerment on the economy and society.
Success of Women-Centric Schemes
Between 2019 and 2024, women-centric initiatives have witnessed unprecedented success. Literacy programs have integrated 4.5 million female voters into the democratic process, while employment initiatives such as the Mudra scheme have benefited around 3.6 million women. Additionally, the Prime Minister’s Housing Scheme has seen ownership of homes registered in women’s names, connecting an additional 2 million voters. Health and sanitation initiatives have also positively impacted women’s lives, enhancing their overall well-being.
Impact on Voter Engagement
These initiatives not only empower individual women but also foster greater political engagement among female voters. This enhanced participation translates into more representation and advocacy for women’s issues at the policy-making level.
Historic Steps in the 2024-25 Budget
The previous budget allocated over ₹3 lakh crores for women’s and girls’ welfare, prioritizing programs such as Mission Shakti, working women’s hostels, and skill development initiatives. Essential facilities like crèche services for working mothers, financial schemes for women entrepreneurs, and a focus on safety measures have encouraged women’s participation in the workforce. These steps have made significant strides toward reducing the gender gap in employment and economic contribution.
Financial Allocations Overview
| Scheme | Allocation (in Crores) | Target Group |
|---|---|---|
| Mission Shakti | 15000 | Women Empowerment |
| Working Women’s Hostels | 5000 | Workforce Participation |
| Skill Development Programs | 20000 | Women Entrepreneurs |
Expectations from the 2025-26 Budget
For the upcoming budget, there is an anticipation of a heightened focus on education, health, and employment for women. Proposals for digital literacy, increased participation in startups, and industry-specific skill development programs may take center stage. Furthermore, we may see an extension of health initiatives and sanitation programs aimed at uplifting women’s health standards. Specifically, rural women’s empowerment schemes like the Ujjwala scheme and Jan Dhan Yojana may have their reach expanded to encompass a broader demographic.
Empowerment as an Economic Priority
By placing women’s empowerment at the forefront of its agenda, the government’s budget could serve as a critical step toward increasing their economic, social, and political participation. The decisive role women played in the 2024 elections and the evident success of women-centered policies signal that development centered around women is not merely a social imperative but also an economic priority.
Conclusion
The forthcoming Union Budget of 2025-26 holds the potential to shape the future of women’s empowerment initiatives profoundly. By continuing to invest in programs that uplift women, the government can facilitate a more inclusive and equitable society, thereby capitalizing on the full spectrum of talents and contributions that women bring to the table.