Gruha Lakshmi Scheme Launches Empowerment Drive for Women in Karnataka
The transformative Gruha Lakshmi scheme, aimed at advancing gender equality and empowering women across the state of Karnataka, is poised to commence today with a momentous inauguration in Mysuru City. Marking a significant stride, beneficiaries will witness the infusion of funds into their accounts starting today, facilitated by a meticulous bank transfer process. This initiative stands as a cornerstone of the assurances tendered during the electoral campaign, underscoring the party’s unwavering dedication to women’s welfare. The presence of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in Bengaluru ahead of the launch imbues the event with added significance.
The inauguration, graced by the presence of State Chief Minister Siddaramiah and Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge, among other distinguished party members, will unfold amidst a public gathering. The spotlight will be cast on the initiation of direct financial assistance, poised to benefit an estimated 12.8 million women who lead households in Karnataka. The program resonates with broader governmental commitments, encompassing pivotal guarantees like Shakti, Anna Bhagya, and Gruha Jyothi.
The inaugural phase encompasses beneficiaries hailing from the districts of Mysuru, Mandya, Chamarajanagar, and Kodagu. The scheme’s ambit is expected to expand, embracing regions including Belagavi, in the subsequent phases.
Addressing the gathering during the launch event, Rahul Gandhi underscored: “Our party pledged five core commitments to Karnataka before the elections. Today, with a simple click, millions of women are receiving ₹2000 directly into their bank accounts, reaffirming Congress’s unwavering commitment to fulfilling its promises.”
Speaking to a massive audience during the inauguration of Karnataka government’s prominent Gruha Lakshmi initiative, the fourth among five assurances aimed at providing ₹2,000 monthly to female heads of households in the State, Rahul Gandhi referred to these assurance programs as exemplars of effective governance. He mentioned that the Congress party intends to duplicate the efforts undertaken by the Karnataka Government, particularly in terms of advancing women’s empowerment, on a national scale. He emphasized that Karnataka is setting a precedent for the entire nation.
Key Highlights of the Gruha Lakshmi Scheme:
1. Rahul Gandhi Initiates Direct Benefit Transfers: In a pivotal move, Rahul Gandhi initiates the direct transfer of benefits, facilitating the flow of funds to Gruha Lakshmi beneficiaries.
2. Empowering Family Heads: Eligible women heading families categorized under Below Poverty Line (BPL), Above Poverty Line (APL), and Antyodaya groups will receive a monthly assistance of ₹2000.
3. Substantial State Allocation: The state government earmarks a significant annual budget of ₹32,000 crore to bolster this transformative scheme.
4. Empowering Millions: The scheme extends empowerment to a staggering 1.1 crore female household leaders, providing them with ₹2,000 in monthly assistance.
5. Lauded as a Milestone: Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal lauds the initiative as the “world’s largest-ever welfare scheme for women.”
6. Cognizant Exclusions: Notably, the scheme excludes women government employees, taxpayers, and families where husbands are income tax payers or GST return filers.
7. Fostering Gender Balance: With a focus on promoting gender balance, the scheme provides essential financial support to eligible housewives.
8. Stringent Eligibility Criteria: Eligibility hinges on factors like Aadhaar-linked bank accounts and accurate details, ensuring streamlined and efficient fund distribution.
9. Accessible Registration: The scheme’s registration is accessible through both online and offline modes, catering to diverse sections of society.
10.Part of Comprehensive Vision: The initiative aligns with Congress’s holistic vision for Karnataka’s development and is part of the party’s five core guarantees.
The forthcoming “Yuva Nidhi” guarantee, slated for a December launch, is poised to extend monetary support to unemployed graduates and diploma holders, further solidifying Congress’s commitment to uplifting various segments of society.
As the Gruha Lakshmi scheme unfurls its wings, it promises not just financial assistance but also a transformative empowerment journey for millions of women in Karnataka. The resonance of this launch resonates with the broader vision of upliftment and growth that the Congress party envisions for the state.
