Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana

The Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) is a maternity benefit scheme launched by the Government of India to provide financial assistance to pregnant and lactating mothers. In Jharkhand, this scheme plays a vital role in supporting maternal health and reducing malnutrition among newborns and mothers.

Objectives of PMMVY in Jharkhand

• Financial Assistance - Partial compensation for the wage loss during childbirth and childcare.
• Health and Nutrition - Promote better health and nutrition habits among pregnant and lactating mothers.
• Reduce Maternal Mortality - Reduce MMR and IMR by ensuring proper care for pregnant mothers during pregnancy and after childbirth.

Cash Incentive:

• Eligible beneficiaries receive a cash incentive of ₹5,000 in three installments.
• The first installment of ₹1,000 is given after early registration of pregnancy at the Anganwadi Centre (AWC) or healthcare facility.
• The second installment of ₹2,000 is provided after six months of pregnancy on receiving at least one antenatal check-up (ANC).
• The third installment of ₹2,000 is disbursed after childbirth registration and the first cycle of immunization of the child.

Eligibility:

• Pregnant women and lactating mothers who are 19 years of age or above.
• The scheme is applicable for the first live birth.

Application Process:

• Registration at the nearest Anganwadi Centre (AWC) or approved healthcare facility.
• Submission of necessary documents such as ID proof, pregnancy proof, and beneficiary bank account details

Benefits of PMMVY Scheme

• Essential financial support to mothers to manage expenses during pregnancy and after childbirth.
• Ensures that mothers can afford nutritious food for better health for themselves and their child.
• Seeks to encourage mothers to avail antenatal and postnatal care thereby providing health care for both mother and child.
• Better and increased awareness about maternal health and importance of healthcare and services during pregnancy.

Challenges in PMMVY

• Awareness about scheme among people. Access to scheme.
• Documentation process – lengthy forms
• Delays in the disbursement of funds lead to decrease in the effectiveness of the scheme.
• Adequate infrastructure and trained staff at Anganwadi Centres and healthcare facilities is essential for smooth implementation.