Page 53 - English 01-15 March, 2026

International Women’s Day | NATION

Gender budget increased more
than three times in 6 years
The current central government is accelerating
women-led development by promoting gender-
responsive governance and budgeting. In this regard,
the 2026-27 budget has allocated ₹5 lakh crore for the
welfare of women and girls.

Note: Figures in lakh crore rupees.

5.00 4.49 3.27 2.38 1.71 1.53
BUDGET

2026-27 2025-26 2024-25 2023-24 2022-23 2021-22
FINANCIAL YEAR

Special initiatives for women PM Modi handed over his social
in the 2026-27 budget media platforms to women
n Training of 1.5 lakh multi-skilled caregivers is On the occasion of Women’s Day on March 8,
proposed in the 2026-27 budget, which will improve 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi handed
the delivery of elderly, child, and related care services. over his social media platforms to women
n Self-Help Entrepreneurship (SHE) Marts will be across India who are making remarkable
established. These community-owned resources will progress in various fields to honor their
contributions. PM Modi then said, “These
provide systematic and sustainable market access for women come from different parts of India and
the products of women-led self-help groups. have excelled in various fields, but what they
n To ensure equality and security in higher education, all share is the strength of India’s Nari Shakti.
girls’ hostels have been provided for STEM Their determination and success remind us of
institutions in each district. This will increase the the immense potential of women. Today and
participation of young women in emerging and every day, we are working together to shape a
developed India.”
technology-based fields.

March 1-15, 2026 || NEW INDIA SAMACHAR 51