What Special Gifts Are Being Offered to Women in Rajasthan for Raksha Bandhan?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Free bus travel for women in Rajasthan on Raksha Bandhan.
- Rs 501 DBT to Anganwadi workers as a festival gift.
- Emphasis on women's empowerment and their role in society.
- Introduction of Amrit Aahar Yojana for children's nutrition.
- Government's commitment to enhancing Anganwadi services.
Jaipur, Aug 5 (NationPress) Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma has revealed a remarkable dual gift for the women of Rajasthan, announcing that they will enjoy free travel on Rajasthan State Roadways buses for two days—August 9 (Raksha Bandhan) and August 10.
This complimentary service is available for journeys within the state limits. The Chief Minister underscored the cultural importance of the festival, stating that Raksha Bandhan is more than just a celebration; it embodies India's profound social and familial values.
The initiative is designed to ensure that no sister misses the opportunity to visit her brother on this significant occasion. Additionally, the Chief Minister has transferred Rs 501 each via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to 1.21 lakh Anganwadi workers statewide as a Raksha Bandhan gift.
Sharma praised the vital contribution of Anganwadi workers to nurturing future generations, referring to Anganwadi centres as the “temples of values” and calling Anganwadi workers the second mentors for children following their mothers.
He emphasized that true empowerment of women is essential for the strength of both the state and the nation.
On this occasion, he also administered a nutrition pledge to the Anganwadi workers to reaffirm the state's commitment to fostering a well-nourished Rajasthan.
The Chief Minister highlighted ongoing government efforts to empower women and enhance Anganwadi services.
He noted that the honorarium for Anganwadi workers and assistants will see a 10 percent increase in 2024 and 2025. The state government is also launching 1,000 new Anganwadi centres, developing 2,365 model centres, and allocating Rs 50 crore for repairs.
To boost child nutrition, fortified supplementary food is being provided to around 40 lakh women and children.
Additionally, the Chief Minister's ‘Amrit Aahar Yojana’ has been introduced to offer hot, sweet milk five days a week to children aged 3 to 6 years at Anganwadi centres.
Discussing broader initiatives for women, Sharma stated that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, a new era of women's empowerment is unfolding.
India is among the few nations with a strong representation of women in governance, further bolstered by the Nari Shakti Vandan Act, which ensures reservations for women in Parliament and State Assemblies.
He also mentioned key national programs like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao and Lakhpati Didi, which are empowering women nationwide.
The event concluded with Anganwadi sisters tying Rakhi to the Chief Minister, who reiterated his commitment to ensuring their safety, dignity, and welfare, stating, “This Rakhi tied by sisters is my protective shield.”