₹1000 per month for women's security

Women are the ones who sacrifice the most for the survival and growth of any society. Similarly, women and children suffer more than men in any war or riot. Therefore, the assistance provided by democratic governments to women and children should be widely accepted and commendable. The Tamil Nadu government has allocated Rs. 3,000 as assistance to women. There was criticism that this was to win women's votes in elections. However, when we consider the endless efforts made by a woman to run a household and care for children, this assistance reaches the rightful hands, no matter what the purpose.

Development does not only mean the construction of roads, bridges, commercial complexes, etc. A portion of the economic growth that arises as a part of this should be given in cash for the welfare of the common people. Only if it is given in this way will it become a fact that the country is progressing. Rs. 1,000 each was transferred to the accounts of 10.18 lakh beneficiaries within hours of the inauguration of the Chief Minister's Sthree Suraksha Scheme in Kerala. This is a commendable step. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan launched the scheme in the presence of thousands of women at the Shanthumoola Ground in Malayinkeezhu. The inauguration took place at around 12 noon. At the inauguration ceremony, the Chief Minister handed over the document of the amount being credited to the accounts of the five members of the scheme. The money was credited to the accounts of all the members by 2 pm.

More than 10 lakh people selected after screening from around 16 lakh applicants have received their February allocation. The scheme is for economically backward women in the age group of 35-60 and transgender women who are not members of other social welfare schemes. A total of Rs 101.80 crore was distributed as this month's allocation. Some may think that Rs 1,000 is not a big amount these days. It is a good thing to start a women's safety scheme by giving at least that much when there is nothing. Most of the women who receive this assistance are those who do housework and other similar jobs and look after the house. For such people, getting Rs 1,000 per month is a great help.

It is common for the enthusiasm and attention shown when such schemes are announced to diminish and for welfare pensions to be delayed. Even if it is a small amount, it is a big deal if it is received without delay. The government, which finds the amount needed every month to pay salaries and pensions to government officials, should also make a system to pay welfare pensions that help the common people without delay even for a month. Only then will the benefits of such assistance be received in the intended way. Transgender individuals have been experiencing isolation and neglect from society for decades. Including them also in this scheme is an appropriate decision. This decision will help instil confidence in them that the government has accepted them. It is hoped that this scheme will also play its role in the journey towards the goal of a developed Kerala.