Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana, a flagship scheme of the government for pregnant women and lactating mothers, has completed nine years today.

Akashvani correspondent reports that the scheme was launched on the 1st January 2017 to provide financial support to pregnant and lactating mothers to improve their health and nutrition.

Akashvani correspondent reports, Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana is a Centrally Sponsored flagship scheme to provide maternity benefits to women belonging to socially and economically disadvantaged sections of society.

Under the Scheme, Pregnant Women and Lactating Mothers receive a cash benefit of five thousand rupees for the first child and six thousand rupees for the second girl child.

The first instalment of three thousand rupees is given on registration of pregnancy and the second instalment of two thousand rupees is given after childbirth. The eligible beneficiaries also receive a cash incentive under Janani Suraksha Yojana.

According to the Women and Child Development Ministry, four crore 50 lakh beneficiaries are enrolled under the scheme and more than 19 thousand crore rupees has been disbursed to the beneficiaries. The scheme offers financial assistance to support nutrition, medical checkups, and overall health during pregnancy.