Government Benefits After Childbirth: The Central and State governments run numerous welfare schemes to strengthen people’s financial well-being. Notably, the government also provides financial assistance at the time of a child’s birth. Responsibilities increase significantly when a child is born; specifically, during pregnancy, women require proper medical care, nutrition, and rest. Keeping these factors in mind, the government operates the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) and the Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY).

The primary objective of these schemes is to provide financial support to women. Under these schemes, women receive financial aid of ₹5,000 for the first child and ₹6,000 for the second child. Additionally, benefits under the Janani Suraksha Yojana are available during childbirth. Let us look at how to apply for these schemes.

Understanding the PM Matru Vandana Yojana

The Central Government administers the PMMVY. This scheme provides financial assistance to pregnant and lactating women. Its main goal is to offset expenses incurred during pregnancy and childbirth, enabling women to prioritise their health. The scheme also focuses on maternal health during pregnancy and ensures the child receives necessary vaccinations.

Financial Assistance for the First Child

Under the PMMVY, women receive ₹5,000 for their first child. The government disburses this amount in two instalments: ₹3,000 in the first instalment and ₹2,000 in the second. The first instalment is provided upon pregnancy registration and delivery, while the second instalment is released after the child’s birth. Completion of the 14-week vaccination schedule is mandatory.

₹6,000 for the Second Child

It is worth noting that the PMMVY also assists with the birth of a second child. If the second child is a girl, the government provides ₹6,000 in financial assistance to the woman. This amount is disbursed upon the completion of pregnancy registration, prenatal check-ups, birth registration, and the first round of vaccinations (at 14 weeks).

What is the Janani Suraksha Yojana?

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare launched the Janani Suraksha Yojana. The primary objective of this scheme is to incentivise poor pregnant women to deliver their babies in hospitals or other recognised health institutions. Under this scheme, eligible women receive cash assistance for childbirth. The assistance amount may vary based on the state category and the woman’s eligibility. Under this scheme, women living in rural areas receive ₹1,400, while those in urban areas receive ₹1,000.

Who is eligible for PMMVY benefits?

Benefits under PMMVY are not granted automatically; specific eligibility criteria must be met. According to official information, the scheme is available to women belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC) or Scheduled Tribes (ST), BPL (Below Poverty Line) ration card holders, PMJAY beneficiaries, MGNREGA card holders, e-Shram card holders, and female beneficiaries of the Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme, provided their family’s annual income is less than ₹8 lakh.

What documents are required for the application?

Certain documents are required when applying for PMMVY. These include the woman’s Aadhaar card, bank account details, mobile number, Mother and Child Protection (MCP) card, details regarding pregnancy and ANC (Antenatal Care) check-ups, the child’s birth certificate, vaccination records, and documents such as a BPL ration card, e-Shram card, or MGNREGA card.

How to apply for PMMVY?

Applying for this scheme has become quite simple. Eligible women can contact their local Anganwadi worker, who can assist in filling out the application form online. Alternatively, eligible women can apply themselves through the scheme’s official portal, as the government has provided a self-registration facility. Funds are transferred via DBT once the application form is approved.

Apply via the UMANG App

Women can register for PMMVY benefits using the UMANG app. This allows eligible women to complete the application process directly from their mobile phones. If any issues arise while applying online, assistance can be sought from a nearby Anganwadi worker.

When and how is the money received?

The amount under PMMVY is transferred directly to the beneficiary’s account; therefore, linking the account with a bank or post office is essential. For the first child, upon fulfilling the prescribed conditions, the benefit is received in two instalments of ₹3,000 and ₹2,000. For a second child—specifically a girl—₹6,000 is provided upon meeting the required conditions.

Conclusion

Caring for the mother and child before and after birth is crucial; with this objective in mind, schemes such as the PM Matru Vandana Yojana and the Janani Suraksha Yojana were launched. Under this scheme, eligible women can receive financial assistance of ₹5,000 for the birth of their first child and ₹6,000 for the birth of their second child. To avail of this amount, women must fulfil certain mandatory conditions.