Bhopal, Dec 29 (NationPress) The Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY), initiated in 2017, aims to offer financial assistance to pregnant and lactating mothers, enhancing both health and nutrition for mothers and their children, while also compensating for wage loss.

Over time, the PMMVY has emerged as one of the Centre’s premier initiatives, leading to a remarkable transformation in women’s lives, a change that is evident in various communities.

In Neemuch district of Madhya Pradesh, approximately 50,000 women have reaped the benefits of this financial support scheme.

Many of these women, after receiving Rs 5,000 in their accounts, expressed heartfelt appreciation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for alleviating their burdens during such a vulnerable period in their lives.

With joy illuminating their faces, the beneficiaries credited the dedicated efforts of Anganwadi workers, helpers, along with ASHA and Usha workers, who serve as vital links between expectant mothers and the government. They play an essential role in ensuring timely registration, vaccinations, health center visits, and overall monitoring of both mothers and their newborns.

Mohini Dhakad, a resident of Ata village in Dhani Panchayat, shared, "The Anganwadi worker from my village, Sunita Dhakad, registered me at the Anganwadi center during my pregnancy. She provided me with all the necessary information regarding the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY). I received Rs 3000 in my account after my vaccination. I utilized that for my needs and welcomed my baby girl on September 12th. After my child’s three-and-a-half-month vaccination, I received another Rs 2000. I am grateful to the Prime Minister for such initiatives that benefit all women."

Sapna Dhakad, also from Ata village, remarked, "The Anganwadi worker assisted in completing my PMMVY form, leading to a Rs 3000 benefit during my pregnancy, with an additional Rs 2000 post my son’s three-and-a-half-month vaccination. This support has been invaluable for both my son and me. I extend my heartfelt thanks to the Prime Minister."

Monika Rathore from Sakatpuriya village in Jawad tehsil recounted, "I learned about the PMMVY through my Anganwadi worker. I received Rs 3000 after my three-month vaccination during pregnancy, followed by another Rs 2000. This financial aid has significantly helped during my pregnancy. My gratitude goes to Narendra Modi ji."

According to Neemuch Women and Child Development Program Officer Ankita Pandya, “In Neemuch district, a total of 49,490 women have availed benefits from the PMMVY. Women are utilizing these funds to meet nutritional needs and tackle challenges during their pregnancies.”

Under the PMMVY, a total of Rs 5,000 is granted to pregnant women during their first delivery, with an additional Rs 6,000 allocated if the second child is a girl.