Maharashtra’s Gender Budget Statement (GBS) 2024-25 represents a positive step toward gender-inclusive financial planning. With continued investment in gender budgeting, inclusive policies, and long-term strategic planning, Maharashtra can set a benchmark for gender-responsive governance in India.
India's most prominent red-light district, this celebration rings hollow for many women sex workers who remain politically marginalized despite constitutional guarantees of universal adult franchise.
Cash transfer schemes fall under both the State List and Concurrent List of the Seventh Schedule of the Indian Constitution, depending on their implementation structure. While these schemes have gained popularity in recent years, they are not a new phenomenon. They have existed since market liberalization, reflecting a shift from a welfare state to a corporate welfare state, where targeted financial support replaces broad-based subsidies.
The period from 2020 to 2025 has witnessed a remarkable surge in women entrepreneurship globally, reflecting both significant progress and persistent challenges. This era has been characterized by an increasing number of women venturing into diverse business sectors, thereby contributing substantially to economic growth and innovation.
The true potential of a local economy lies in its people, among them—women, who hold unique and pivotal roles in catalysing change, fostering social cohesion and enriching the cultural landscape. Their contributions extend beyond the immediate gains, creating a ripple effect that strengthens the entire community. Investing in women is not just a matter of social justice; it's a strategic imperative for building resilient, prosperous, and vibrant communities.
To create a truly inclusive and diverse workforce, it is essential to implement gender-sensitive policies that ensure equal access to skill development programs. Challenges Women Face in Skill Development Programs.
In the Union budget of FY 25-26, a new initiative has been taken up by the Government of India (GoI) towards strengthening the rural people and Self-Help Groups (SHG) which comprise of poor rural women who come together to resolve their problems and improve their living standards. The SHGs are generally self-governed and peer controlled. SHGs are often described as “informal groups”. With the introduction of Grameen Credit Score, these small enterprises can be formally recognised, as a result of which they will be subject to different benefits.