Women Empowerment
Overview
Women empowerment is a crucial focus area for Gram Panchayats in West Bengal. The state government, in collaboration with Panchayati Raj Institutions, has implemented various schemes and initiatives to promote education, skill development, and economic independence among women. These efforts aim to create a more inclusive and equitable society at the grassroots level.
Key Initiatives
Major women empowerment programs in West Bengal
| Initiative | Description | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Kanyashree Prakalpa | Provides annual scholarships to girls aged 13-18 to continue their education and prevent early marriage | Over 60 lakh girls benefited |
| Rupashree Prakalpa | One-time financial grant of Rs. 25,000 for economically stressed families at the time of their adult daughter's marriage | Over 6 lakh beneficiaries |
| Swawlamban | Skill development and self-employment program for women | Trained over 1 lakh women |
| Muktir Alo | Scheme for rehabilitation of sex workers and their children | Supported over 1000 women |
Success Stories
Inspiring achievements of women in West Bengal Gram Panchayats
Sundarban's Beekeeping Queen
Purnima Mondal from a remote village in Sundarban started a successful beekeeping enterprise with support from the Swawlamban program, now employing 20 local women.
Education Champion of Purulia
Lakshmi Mahato, a Kanyashree beneficiary, not only completed her education but also started a campaign that brought 100 dropout girls back to school in her district.
Resources
Useful links for women empowerment initiatives in West Bengal