Enlist various government policies and programmes for families
In India, the government plays an active role in supporting families through various policies and programmes. These initiatives aim to improve health, education, nutrition, employment, housing, and overall well-being of families, especially those belonging to weaker sections. In this blog, we will list and briefly explain important government policies and programmes that benefit families in India.
1. Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS)
This programme, started in 1975, focuses on early childhood care and development. It provides:
- Supplementary nutrition
- Immunization
- Health check-ups
- Preschool education
- Nutrition and health education
Target: Children under 6 years, pregnant and lactating mothers.
2. National Health Mission (NHM)
Launched in 2005, NHM aims to improve healthcare delivery, especially for mothers and children.
- Includes Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY) for safe motherhood
- Provides free healthcare services to rural families
- Emphasizes institutional deliveries and immunization
3. Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY)
A scheme under NHM to reduce maternal and infant mortality by promoting institutional deliveries.
- Cash assistance is given to pregnant women for delivering in hospitals.
- Special focus on Below Poverty Line (BPL) families and Scheduled Castes/Tribes.
4. Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao
Launched in 2015 to address the declining child sex ratio and promote education of girls.
- Aims to protect girl children and promote their education and empowerment.
- Targets families and communities through awareness campaigns.
5. Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY)
This is a maternity benefit programme launched in 2017.
- Provides Rs. 5,000 in three installments to pregnant and lactating women.
- Supports health, nutrition, and rest during pregnancy.
6. National Nutrition Mission (Poshan Abhiyaan)
A comprehensive programme to improve nutritional status of women and children.
- Focuses on reducing stunting, anemia, and malnutrition.
- Encourages community participation and awareness among families.
7. Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY)
Provides affordable housing to families living in urban and rural areas.
- Offers subsidies and financial assistance for building or purchasing houses.
- Special focus on economically weaker sections and women.
8. Ayushman Bharat – PM Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY)
This health insurance scheme offers financial protection to poor families.
- Provides free hospitalization up to Rs. 5 lakhs per family per year.
- Covers medical treatment in both public and private hospitals.
9. Public Distribution System (PDS)
Ensures food security for poor families by distributing essential food grains at subsidized rates.
- Supplies rice, wheat, sugar, and kerosene to ration card holders.
- Helps families manage their monthly food needs.
10. Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA)
Provides guaranteed employment to rural families.
- Ensures 100 days of wage employment per year to every rural household.
- Improves income, living standards, and family welfare.
11. Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana
A small savings scheme for girl children.
- Parents can open an account for a girl child below 10 years.
- Encourages saving for education and marriage.
Conclusion
Government policies and programmes are essential tools to support families, especially those in need. From health and nutrition to housing and employment, these schemes provide financial and emotional security to millions of Indian families. Social workers can play a key role in creating awareness and helping families access these schemes for better living.