The Ministry of Women and Child Development is implementing several centrally sponsored schemes across the country aimed at the welfare, protection and empowerment of women and children. These initiatives are structured under three major verticals—Mission Shakti, Saksham Anganwadi & Poshan 2.0, and Mission Vatsalya.
Mission Shakti focuses on women’s safety, security and empowerment through its two sub-schemes—Sambal and Samarthya. While Sambal covers initiatives such as One Stop Centres, Women Helplines and Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, Samarthya supports empowerment programmes including maternity benefits, shelter homes and women-centric support services. The SANKALP Hub for Empowerment of Women functions as a central platform to improve awareness, coordination and access to government schemes.
Saksham Anganwadi & Poshan 2.0 aims to improve nutrition and health outcomes among women and children, while Mission Vatsalya addresses the protection and welfare of children, particularly those in difficult circumstances.
In addition, the Department of Science and Technology is running the WISE-KIRAN programme to promote women’s participation in science and technology through fellowships, research support and training initiatives. Programmes like Vigyan Jyoti are also encouraging girls to pursue careers in STEM fields.
During the financial year 2025–26, around 900 women have benefited from various initiatives under the WISE-KIRAN programme, reflecting the government’s continued focus on inclusive growth and empowerment.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
