What Are the Benefits of Namo Shree Yojana for Mothers in Gujarat?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The Namo Shree Yojana has provided substantial financial aid to mothers.
- It has significantly improved maternal health outcomes in Gujarat.
- The scheme works in conjunction with national health programs.
- Transparency and efficiency are emphasized through digital processes.
- Gujarat aims to exceed UN SDG targets for maternal health.
Gandhinagar, Sep 15 (NationPress) As Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel marked his four-year milestone in office on September 13, one of his administration's most notable accomplishments has been in the realm of maternal and child health.
Initiated in February 2024, the Namo Shree Yojana has swiftly evolved into one of the state's most ambitious social welfare programs for women.
In a mere 18 months, this initiative has successfully reached over 6.21 lakh mothers, distributing financial aid totaling Rs 354 crore, while nearly 11 lakh women have signed up as beneficiaries.
Eligible mothers can receive financial support of up to Rs 12,000 in phases during their first two pregnancies. The scheme collaborates with national programs like the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) and the Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY) to ensure both nutritional support and access to institutional healthcare for mothers.
The disbursement process utilizes the state’s TeCHO+ portal, featuring digital document verification and Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) into beneficiaries' bank accounts, enhancing the scheme's transparency and efficiency.
Health specialists attribute the program's success to a significant enhancement in maternal health metrics. Gujarat’s Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) has decreased by 54.5 percent over the last decade, from 112 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2013 to just 51 in 2023.
This achievement positions Gujarat well above the national average of 88, enabling the state to meet the UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target of reducing MMR below 70 by 2030—seven years ahead of schedule.
In addition to the Namo Shree initiative, Gujarat has bolstered maternal and child health through complementary schemes like SUMAN, PMSMA, Mamta, and Khilkhilat, all aimed at mitigating pregnancy risks and ensuring proper nutrition and care.
From financial empowerment to healthcare access, the Namo Shree Yojana is not only transforming maternal health outcomes but also stands as a testament to Chief Minister Patel’s dedication to women’s empowerment and inclusive growth.