Government Extends Safety of Women Scheme with 1,179.72 Crore Rupees

The Indian government has approved the continuation of the umbrella scheme on Safety of Women with a budget of 1,179.72 crore rupees from 2021-22 to 2025-26. The scheme aims to enhance womens safety through various initiatives.

In a significant move to enhance women's safety and well-being, the Indian government has decided to continue the umbrella scheme on Safety of Women with a substantial allocation of Rs 1,179.72 crore. This decision was taken during a meeting of the Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday, February 21, 2023.

Enhanced Funding and Collaborative Approach

The Union Cabinet approved the proposal presented by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) to extend the implementation of the umbrella scheme on Safety of Women. The total project outlay for the period from 2021-22 to 2025-26 stands at Rs 1,179.72 crore. Out of this amount, Rs 885.49 crore will be provided by the MHA from its own budget, while the remaining Rs 294.23 crore will be funded from the Nirbhaya Fund.

Addressing Safety Concerns through Multifaceted Initiatives

The government recognizes that women's safety is influenced by various factors, including stringent deterrence through robust laws, efficient justice delivery, timely redressal of complaints, and accessible institutional support structures for victims. To address these aspects, the government has implemented several projects in collaboration with states and Union Territories.

Key Projects under the Umbrella Scheme

The umbrella scheme encompasses a range of projects aimed at strengthening mechanisms for timely intervention and investigation in cases of crimes against women. These projects include:

• Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) 2.0: This project aims to enhance the emergency response mechanism for women in distress, ensuring prompt assistance and support.
• Upgradation of Central Forensic Sciences Laboratories: This initiative focuses on upgrading forensic laboratories and establishing a National Forensic Data Centre to improve forensic analysis capabilities.
• Strengthening of DNA Analysis and Cyber Forensic Capacities in State Forensic Science Laboratories (FSLs): This project aims to enhance the capacity of FSLs in conducting DNA analysis and handling cyber forensic cases related to crimes against women.
• Cyber Crime Prevention against Women and Children: This project is designed to prevent cybercrimes against women and children by raising awareness, strengthening enforcement mechanisms, and providing support to victims.
• Capacity Building and Training of Investigators and Prosecutors: This initiative focuses on training investigators and prosecutors to effectively handle sexual assault cases against women and children, ensuring better investigation and prosecution.
• Women Help Desk & Anti-Human Trafficking Units: This project aims to establish dedicated Women Help Desks and Anti-Human Trafficking Units to provide assistance and support to women in need.

The continuation of the umbrella scheme on Safety of Women with an increased allocation of Rs 1,179.72 crore demonstrates the government's commitment to creating a safer environment for women across the country. By implementing these projects, the government aims to strengthen the legal framework, improve investigation and prosecution capabilities, and provide accessible support structures for women facing various forms of violence and abuse. These efforts are crucial in ensuring the safety, dignity, and empowerment of women in India.