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Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana: A Milestone in Maternal Support

Understanding the Impact of PMMVY on Mothers and Children

Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana: A Milestone in Maternal Support

  • 03 Jan, 2026
  • 455

Overview of Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY)

The Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) celebrates its nine-year journey on January 1, 2026. Launched on January 1, 2017, this flagship maternity benefit scheme of the Government of India aims to support pregnant women and lactating mothers.

Key Features of PMMVY

  • Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Women and Child Development (MoWCD)
  • Funding Pattern: 60:40 between the Centre and State Governments; 90:10 for Union Territories with legislatures.
  • Financial Support: Rs 5000 for the first child and Rs 6000 for the second child (if girl).
  • Benefit Transfer: Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to bank or post office accounts.

Goals of PMMVY

The primary aim of PMMVY is to provide financial support to pregnant and lactating mothers. This initiative seeks to enhance maternal wellbeing by:

  • Ensuring safe delivery and reducing malnutrition.
  • Compensating for wage loss during pregnancy.
  • Providing free meals during pregnancy and for six months post-childbirth through local Anganwadis.

Integration with Mission Shakti

In 2022, PMMVY was incorporated into the Mission Shakti initiative, which combines various schemes to empower women. The Samarthya component focuses on economic empowerment and financial inclusion.

Funding and Eligibility

PMMVY operates on a funding ratio of 60:40 between the Centre and State Governments, with a higher ratio of 90:10 for certain Union Territories. However, women in regular employment with the Central Government, State Government, or Public Sector Undertakings are not eligible for benefits under this scheme.

Financial Benefits and Installments

Eligible beneficiaries can receive financial aid for their first two living children, with specific conditions. The cash incentives are disbursed in two installments:

  • 1st Installment: Rs 3,000 upon pregnancy registration and after at least one antenatal checkup.
  • 2nd Installment: Rs 2,000 provided after the child’s registration and completion of due vaccinations up to 14 weeks.

Impact and Reach

As of December 2025, PMMVY has successfully enrolled over 4.05 crore beneficiaries, with more than Rs. 19,000 crore disbursed to support maternal health and nutrition, showcasing its significant impact on the lives of mothers and children across India.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana?
Answer: PMMVY is a maternity benefit scheme launched by the Government of India to provide financial support to pregnant women and lactating mothers to improve maternal health.

Q2. How much financial assistance does PMMVY offer?
Answer: The scheme provides Rs 5,000 for the first child and Rs 6,000 for the second child (if it is a girl) in two installments.

Q3. Who is eligible for PMMVY benefits?
Answer: All pregnant women and lactating mothers, except those employed by the Central or State Government or Public Sector Undertakings, are eligible for benefits under PMMVY.

Q4. How are the benefits transferred to beneficiaries?
Answer: Financial assistance is transferred directly to beneficiaries' bank or post office accounts through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).

Q5. What is the significance of Mission Shakti in PMMVY?
Answer: Mission Shakti integrates various women empowerment schemes, including PMMVY, focusing on financial support and economic empowerment for women.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: When was the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana launched?
A) January 1, 2016
B) January 1, 2017
C) January 1, 2018
D) January 1, 2019
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: What is the funding pattern for PMMVY in Union Territories with legislatures?
A) 70:30
B) 80:20
C) 90:10
D) 100:0
Correct Answer: C

Question 3: How much is the first installment of financial aid under PMMVY?
A) Rs 2,000
B) Rs 3,000
C) Rs 4,000
D) Rs 5,000
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: Which ministry is responsible for implementing PMMVY?
A) Ministry of Finance
B) Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
C) Ministry of Women and Child Development
D) Ministry of Education
Correct Answer: C

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