Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY): Objectives, Benefits & How to apply

Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) is a flagship maternity benefit program launched by the Government of India to support pregnant and lactating mothers.

The Government of India is implemented the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) with effect from 1st January 2017. The PMMVY Scheme is being implemented as per provisions under Section 4 of the National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013 which provides for financial support for pregnant and lactating mothers is to improve the health and nutrition for mother and child as well as compensation for wage loss, if any

The scheme aims to provide partial compensation for wage loss during childbirth, encourage safe delivery, and ensure better nutrition for both mother and child. Introduced in 2017, PMMVY is a critical step toward improving maternal health and reducing infant mortality in India.

OBJECTIVES

PMMVY was designed with the following objectives:

To compensate for wage loss, ensuring that expecting mothers can take adequate rest before and after childbirth.

Encouraging women to opt for institutional deliveries, reducing the risks associated with home births.

To provide nutritional support during pregnancy and lactation, enhancing the overall health of the mother and child.

Addressing health issues caused by malnutrition and lack of rest during pregnancy to lower maternal mortality rates.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

To benefit from the PMMVY scheme, applicants must fulfill the following criteria:

Citizenship: The scheme is available for Indian citizens only.

Pregnancy Status: Applicable for the first living child of the family, Women expecting their first child or delivering their first child are eligible.

Employment Status: Women employed in the organized sector and covered under maternity benefits are excluded.

Registration Requirements: The applicant must register the pregnancy at an Anganwadi Centre (AWC) or approved health facility.

Age Limit: Pregnant women aged 19 years or above are eligible for the scheme.

BENEFITS

The scheme provides financial incentives to ensure better healthcare and nutrition. Here’s a breakdown of the benefits:

Cash Incentive: In case of the first child the amount of ₹5000 in two instalments and for the second child, the benefit of ₹6000 will be provided subject to second child is a girl child in one instalment after the birth. However, for availing benefits for second child, registration during the pregnancy shall be mandatory..

Beneficiaries of the Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY) can receive an additional ₹1,000 for institutional delivery.

HOW TO APPLY?

Applying for PMMVY involves a simple process that ensures women can easily access the benefits.

Registration: Visit the nearest Anganwadi Centre (AWC) or an approved health facility, Fill out Form 1-A to register for the scheme.

Submission of Documents: Proof of identity (Aadhar card) / Bank account details / Pregnancy registration proof / MCP (Mother and Child Protection) card.

Installments Claim: Submit Form 1 B and Form 1 C along with required documents for subsequent installments after completing each stage (antenatal check-up, childbirth registration, and child immunization).

Mode of Payment: The cash benefit is transferred directly to the beneficiary’s bank account through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to ensure transparency.

Since its inception, PMMVY has made significant strides in improving maternal and infant health across India. By providing financial assistance and promoting institutional deliveries, the scheme has empowered women, particularly in rural areas, to access better healthcare. Additionally, the emphasis on nutrition and immunization has helped in reducing malnutrition and infant mortality rates.

CONCLUSION

The Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana is a vital initiative toward achieving a healthier and more secure future for mothers and their children. By focusing on financial support, nutrition, and institutional care, PMMVY addresses critical challenges in maternal healthcare. Women across India should take advantage of this scheme to ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy, fostering a brighter future for their families.

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