Increased Allocations, Limited Impact
The Union Budget 2025-26 significantly increased the gender budget, reflecting a commitment to women's welfare.
Despite consistent increases in allocations over the years, tangible benefits, especially for marginalized women (SC/ST), have not kept pace.
Programs like PM JANMAN and Dharti Aba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan, while well-intentioned, struggle to deliver effective change.
The lack of evaluations of past budgets, and the lack of intersectional data, hinders the ability to make meaningful change.
Challenges in Implementation and Data
Digitalization, while aiming to eliminate intermediaries, creates barriers for women with low digital literacy.
Outdated Census data (2011) limits the ability to tailor policies effectively.
Lack of gender-disaggregated data within Scheduled Castes Sub-Plan (SCSP) and Tribal Sub-Plan (TSP) makes it difficult to assess the impact on SC/ST women.
Bureaucratic red tape, complicated paperwork, and lack of community involvement contribute to underutilization of funds.
Regional, cultural, and social diversities are often overlooked in the creation of these programs.
The Need for Systemic Improvements
Strengthening local institutions (Panchayati Raj) is crucial for effective service delivery.
Addressing the "sarpanch husband" phenomenon is essential for women's empowerment.
Gender budgets must be designed with an audit that considers intersectionality.
Community-led participatory methods are needed for effective planning and monitoring.
Transparent monitoring systems and a gender budget tracking portal would enhance accountability.
Moving Beyond Tokenism
Real progress requires effective implementation, not just increased allocations.
Addressing the digital divide and intersectional realities is vital.
Policies must move beyond tokenism to ensure equity, accessibility, and accountability.
Kerala’s Kudumbashree mission is an example of a successful community led program.
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