Women Empowerment and Government Schemes in India

Abstract

Women empowerment has emerged as a central concern in India’s development discourse, recognizing women as key agents of social, economic, and political transformation. The Government of India has introduced a wide range of schemes and policy initiatives aimed at improving women’s access to education, healthcare, employment, financial inclusion, safety, and decision-making power. Major initiatives such as Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, Jan Dhan Yojana, Self-Help Group (SHG) movement, Mission Shakti, and Stand-Up India have sought to address structural inequalities and promote inclusive growth. Despite notable progress, challenges such as patriarchal norms, limited awareness, digital divide, and uneven implementation continue to constrain outcomes, particularly for women from rural, marginalized, and economically weaker sections. This study examines the role of government schemes in advancing women empowerment in India, evaluates their achievements and limitations, and highlights the need for convergence, community participation, and gender-responsive governance to ensure sustainable empowerment and inclusive national development.

Keywords- Women Empowerment; Government Schemes; Gender Equality; Social Inclusion; Economic Empowerment; Education; Health; Self-Help Groups; Policy Interventions; India