Symbolism or substance? Delhi govt allocates Rs 5,100 crore for Mahila Samridhi Yojana

The Delhi government on Saturday approved the 'Mahila Samridhi Yojana,' a scheme promising Rs 2,500 per month to women, backed by a substantial budget allocation of Rs 5,100 crore. Announced by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, the initiative aligns with the BJP’s key electoral promise and is set to be monitored by a committee led by the CM herself.

The timing of the announcement, coinciding with International Women’s Day, raises questions about whether the initiative is a genuine step towards women's empowerment or a strategic token gesture.

While the allocation suggests financial commitment, concerns remain about the scheme’s long-term viability, implementation, and political motivations.

The scheme comes in the wake of the BJP’s landslide victory in the Delhi Assembly elections, where it secured 48 out of 70 seats, reclaiming power after 26 years. The party’s promise of Rs 2,500 per month for women outbid AAP’s pledge of Rs 2,100, a move that, many believe, have contributed to its electoral success.

While the BJP presents the scheme as a fulfillment of its campaign commitment, the opposition has raised concerns about its execution. Leader of Opposition Atishi criticized the delay in disbursing funds, pointing out that despite PM Modi’s assurance during the campaign, no woman has received the promised amount by the stated deadline of March 8.

CM Gupta has assured that a committee will oversee the rollout, and a registration portal will be launched soon. However, questions persist regarding:

1.     Funding and Sustainability: Will the Rs 5,100 crore allocation be sufficient for long-term implementation, or is this a one-time electoral stunt?

2.     Eligibility and Reach: How will the government ensure equitable distribution and prevent misuse of funds?

3.     Structural Empowerment vs. Direct Transfers: Does this scheme provide substantive empowerment, or is it merely a short-term financial relief measure without addressing systemic gender disparities?

The Mahila Samridhi Yojana highlights a growing trend of competitive welfare politics, where parties outbid each other with financial incentives. While direct cash transfers offer immediate relief, they do not necessarily translate into structural empowerment in education, employment, and safety for women.

If the BJP government ensures transparency and effective implementation, the scheme could benefit lakhs of women. However, if it remains just an electoral promise without addressing structural reforms, it risks being yet another case of symbolic politics over substantive change.