A Gift for 69 Lakh Mothers CM Vishnu Deo Sai Releases the 25th Installment of Mahtari Vandan Yojana:

International Women’s Day 2026 brought a significant reason to celebrate for millions of families across Chhattisgarh. In a powerful gesture of respect and economic support, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai chose the heart of Bastar Jagdalpur to release the 25th installment of the state's flagship Mahtari Vandan Yojana.

With just a single digital click at the "Mahtari Vandan Sammelan," the Chief Minister transferred ₹641.58 crore directly into the bank accounts of over 69.48 lakh married women. This isn't just a monthly transaction; it’s a consistent promise that has now reached a remarkable 25-month milestone.

The ₹25,000 Journey

Since the scheme was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 10, 2024, the state government has been incredibly punctual. Every month, eligible women receive ₹1,000, and with this latest installment, each beneficiary has now received a total of ₹25,000 over the last two years.

During his address in Bastar, CM Sai hit back at critics who once doubted the scheme's longevity. "Some said this wouldn't last two months," he remarked, "but today, the smiles on the faces of our mothers and sisters are the best answer to those doubts."

Impact Beyond the Bank Account

The real beauty of the Mahtari Vandan Yojana lies in how these funds are being used. From paying for a child’s school fees to starting small home-based businesses like tailoring or grocery shops, women in Chhattisgarh are becoming better financial managers. In rural areas like Bastar and Surguja, this monthly support is acting as a safety net, allowing women to have a more decisive voice in household decisions.

What’s Next for Women in Chhattisgarh?

The government isn't stopping here. In the latest state budget, a massive ₹8,200 crore has been set aside to ensure this scheme continues without any hiccups. Beyond direct cash transfers, the CM also highlighted other initiatives:

Mahtari Sadans: 250 special community centers are being built across the state for women's gatherings and skill training.

Lakhpati Didi: The state is on track to create 10 lakh "Lakhpati Didis"—women entrepreneurs earning at least ₹1 lakh annually.

Rani Durgavati Yojana: A new scheme providing ₹1.5 lakh to girls when they turn 18 to secure their future.

As Bastar transforms from a conflict-hit zone to a hub of development and peace, the Mahtari Vandan Yojana stands as a pillar of this new “Self-Reliant Chhattisgarh.”