Samarthya Sub-Scheme – Initiatives for Women’s Welfare

Overview

The Samarthya Sub-scheme is an initiative launched by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India, in 2021. The scheme aims to empower women through skill development and enhance their participation in the workforce. It specifically targets women aged 18 years and above, particularly those from marginalized and disadvantaged sections of society.

Key Features

The Samarthya Sub-scheme focuses on skill development to enhance employability. It includes training modules across various sectors such as handicrafts, handlooms, agriculture, hospitality, information technology, and healthcare. Financial assistance is provided to support training and skill development initiatives for participants.

Implementation

The implementation of the Samarthya Sub-scheme involves collaboration with multiple stakeholders, including state governments, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and skill development centers. A monitoring mechanism is established to regularly assess and ensure the quality and effectiveness of the training programs offered under the scheme.

Expected Outcomes

The anticipated outcomes of the Samarthya Sub-scheme include increased employment generation for women across various sectors. The scheme aims to empower women to achieve economic independence, thereby enhancing their social status through skill acquisition and employment.

Related Schemes

The Samarthya Sub-scheme is part of a broader framework of initiatives aimed at women’s welfare. Related schemes include Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, which focuses on the education and empowerment of girls, Mahila E-Haat, an online marketing platform for women entrepreneurs, and Nari Shakti Puraskar, which recognises the contributions of women in various fields.

Funding

The implementation of the Samarthya Sub-scheme is supported by specific financial allocations made in the annual budget. These provisions ensure the availability of resources necessary to carry out the activities and initiatives outlined in the scheme.

Challenges

Despite its objectives, the Samarthya Sub-scheme faces several challenges. There is a need for increased awareness among women regarding the scheme and its benefits. Additionally, ensuring the accessibility of training centers for women in rural and remote areas remains challenge.

Analytical Topics on Samarthya Sub-Scheme in Context of Indian Society

The impact of skill development on women’s economic empowerment can be assessed by analysing how the scheme’s focus on skill acquisition can lead to increased financial independence for women, particularly in marginalized communities. It is essential to explore the correlation between skill acquisition and employment rates among women and to evaluate the long-term economic benefits for families and communities. Barriers to accessing skill development programs under the Samarthya Sub-scheme warrant investigation. Challenges such as transportation issues, cultural norms, and lack of awareness can hinder women’s participation. Proposing strategies to overcome these barriers is crucial for enhancing the effectiveness of the scheme. The role of partnerships in the effective implementation of the Samarthya Sub-scheme is . Collaborations between the government, NGOs, and skill development centers can enhance the quality of training programs and ensure they meet the specific needs of women from diverse backgrounds. Lastly, the social implications of women’s employment resulting from the Samarthya Sub-scheme can be explored. Increased female employment can challenge traditional gender roles, influence family dynamics, and contribute to changing societal attitudes towards women’s capabilities and rights in India.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyze the significance of the Samarthya Sub-scheme in promoting women’s economic independence and its potential long-term impacts on family welfare.
2. Point out the barriers women face in accessing skill development programs under the Samarthya Sub-scheme and propose viable solutions to enhance participation.
3. Examine the role of partnerships between government and non-governmental organizations in the effective implementation of the Samarthya Sub-scheme; how can these collaborations improve training outcomes?
4. Estimate the social changes that may arise from increased female employment due to the Samarthya Sub-scheme; how can this challenge traditional gender norms in Indian society?

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyze the significance of the Samarthya Sub-scheme in promoting women’s economic independence and its potential long-term impacts on family welfare.

1. The Samarthya Sub-scheme provides skill development and vocational training to women, enhancing their employability.
2. Economic independence leads to improved decision-making power within families, encouraging gender equality.
3. Increased income from women can contribute to better health, education, and nutrition for family members.
4. The scheme promotes entrepreneurship among women, creating job opportunities and stimulating local economies.
5. Long-term impacts include changing perceptions of women’s roles in society and reducing dependency on male family members.

2. Point out the barriers women face in accessing skill development programs under the Samarthya Sub-scheme and propose viable solutions to enhance participation.

1. Barriers include lack of awareness about the scheme and available programs among women.
2. Societal norms and family responsibilities often restrict women’s mobility and participation in training programs.
3. Limited access to transportation and infrastructure can hinder attendance at training centers.
4. Proposed solutions include community outreach programs to raise awareness and flexible training schedules to accommodate women’s needs.
5. Incentives like childcare support or stipends can encourage women to participate in skill development initiatives.

3. Examine the role of partnerships between government and non-governmental organizations in the effective implementation of the Samarthya Sub-scheme; how can these collaborations improve training outcomes?

1. NGOs can leverage local knowledge to tailor training programs to meet community-specific needs.
2. Collaborations can enhance resource sharing, pooling expertise and funding to maximize impact.
3. Joint efforts can facilitate better outreach and enrollment of women in skill development programs.
4. NGOs often have established networks that can provide continuous support and mentorship to trainees.
5. Feedback mechanisms can be improved through partnerships, allowing for adaptive program modifications based on participant experiences.

4. Estimate the social changes that may arise from increased female employment due to the Samarthya Sub-scheme; how can this challenge traditional gender norms in Indian society?

1. Increased female employment can lead to greater financial autonomy, shifting household dynamics.
2. Women entering the workforce can challenge stereotypes, promoting a more equitable view of gender roles.
3. Economic contributions by women can elevate their status in families and communities, encouraging respect and recognition.
4. As women become role models, they can inspire future generations to pursue education and careers.
5. Long-term societal changes may include a decline in child marriage and an increase in women’s participation in decision-making processes.