Himachal Pradesh Unveils New Pension Scheme for Women, Raising Questions from Opposition

Himachal Pradesh Unveils New Pension Scheme for Women, Raising Questions from Opposition

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu announced a new welfare program, the “Indira Gandhi Pyari Behna Sukh Samman Nidhi Yojana,” during a press conference in Shimla on 4th March 2024. This initiative aims to empower women in the state by providing a monthly pension of Rs 1500 to all women aged between 18 and 80 years.

Scheme Details and Wider Impact:

Scheduled to begin in the 2024-25 financial year, the program expands upon a pilot project previously implemented in Lahaul-Spiti district. With an estimated budget of Rs 800 crore annually, the scheme is expected to benefit over 5 lakh women across Himachal Pradesh. Additionally, the existing pension for women above 60 years old will be increased from Rs 1150 to Rs 1500, aligning with the new scheme’s benefits.

Government’s Achievements and Challenges:

Highlighting the government’s accomplishments in its first year, Chief Minister Sukhu acknowledged the significant financial hurdles faced, including a state debt of Rs 75,000 crore and employee benefit liabilities of Rs 10,000 crore. Despite these challenges, the government has implemented various impactful programs, showcasing its ability to overcome adversity, such as the recent rain disasters that caused widespread destruction.

Fulfilling Pre-Election Promises:

Chief Minister Sukhu emphasized the government’s commitment to fulfilling its pre-election promises. He listed key achievements such as reinstating the old pension scheme, launching the Rs 650 crore Rajiv Gandhi Startup Scheme, introducing English medium education in schools from the first grade, and implementing initiatives to support agriculture and dairy farming.

Opposition Raises Concerns:

While the “Indira Gandhi Pyari Behna Sukh Samman Nidhi Yojana” promises significant social and economic benefits for women in Himachal Pradesh, the leader of the opposition, Jai Ram Thakur, expressed concerns about the scheme’s reach. He pointed out that the program targets only 5 lakh women, leaving out a substantial portion of the 22 lakh women in the 18-80 age group in the state.

The announcement of this new pension scheme has sparked both hope and skepticism. While it signifies the government’s commitment to women’s welfare, questions regarding its inclusivity and long-term sustainability remain to be addressed.

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