Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY)
The Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY), popularly known as the Maternity Benefit Programme, is an important component project introduced by the Ministry of Women & Child Development, Government of India on January 1, 2017.
This program acts as an essential safety net for pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers, particularly those from less fortunate homes, by providing them with important financial help during pregnancy.
Who Can Apply for PMMVY?
The PMMVY scheme aims to support women from socially, economically disadvantaged, and marginalized sections of society.
- Women from scheduled castes and scheduled tribes
- Women who are partially (40%) or fully disabled (Divyang Jan)
- Women holding BPL ration cards
- Beneficiaries under Pradhan Mantri Jan Aarogya Yojana (PMJAY) under Ayushman Bharat
- Women holding E-shram cards
- Women farmers benefiting from PM Kisan Samman Nidhi
- Women with MGNREGA job cards
- Women with a net family income less than ₹8 lakh per annum
- Pregnant and lactating AWWs, AWHs, ASHAs
- Women with ration cards under the NFSA Act 2013
- Any other category as prescribed by the Central Government
Special Conditions
- Timeline from LMP to childbirth: LMP+140 days to LMP+300 days (pre-mature and postmature). The stage of pregnancy is counted from the Last Menstrual Period (LMP) date as per the MCP card.
- Age: 18 years & 7 months to less than 55 years at the time of childbirth.
- In case of miscarriage/stillbirth, the beneficiary is treated as a fresh beneficiary in any future pregnancy.
- Registration is open until 270 days from childbirth.
Required Documents
- Aadhaar card of the pregnant woman
- The child's birth certificate (if applicable for the second daughter)
- Address proof (ration card, utility bill, etc.)
- Identity certificate (Voter ID, passport, etc.)
- Caste certificate (if applicable)
- PAN card (if available)
- Bank Account Passbook with account linked to Aadhaar card
- Mobile number
- Passport-sized photograph.
Application Process
There are two ways to apply for PMMVY, making the process accessible for everyone:
Online Application
- Step 1: Visit the official website - pmmvy.wcd.gov.in.
- Step 2: Locate and click on the "Citizen Login" option on the homepage.
- Step 3: Enter your registered mobile number and click on "Verify".
- Step 5: Upon successful verification, a registration form will appear. Fill out the form carefully and accurately with all the required information.
- Step 6: The system will allow you to upload scanned copies of the required documents (listed below) in the designated section. Ensure the scanned documents are clear and legible.
- Step 6: After uploading all documents and verifying the information you've entered, carefully review everything for accuracy. Once satisfied, click the "Submit" button.
You will receive a registration number for future reference and tracking of your application status.
Offline Application
- Step 1: Visit your nearest Anganwadi center or health center. These facilities have trained personnel who can assist you with the application process.
- Step 2: Ask for the application form for PMMVY.
- Step 3: Fill out the application form carefully and completely with all the required details.
- Step 4: Attach clear photocopies of the required documents (listed below) to the application form.
- Step 5: Submit the completed application form along with the documents to the authorized personnel at the Anganwadi center or health center.
You should receive a receipt for your application, which you should keep for your records.
Benefits
PMMVY offers a different approach to supporting mothers and their children:
- Improved Maternal Health and Nutrition: The financial aid enables expectant mothers to receive better nutrition and healthcare during their pregnancy. This can result in healthier pregnancies, births, and overall mother health outcomes.
- Reduced Infant Mortality Rate: By encouraging regular prenatal examinations and good treatment during pregnancy, PMMVY leads to a lower infant mortality rate. Timely medical intervention may significantly increase the odds of a healthy birth.
- Empowering Women: The financial help empowers women, especially those from economically challenged homes. It gives them a sense of financial certainty during pregnancy and allows them to focus on their health and well-being. This can also lead to greater decision-making power inside the home.
- Reduced Work Strain: Financial help can relieve the pressure to work during pregnancy, allowing women to prioritize relaxation and self-care, benefiting both the mother and the developing baby.
Financial Benefits
The financial assistance provided under PMMVY varies depending on the number of children a woman has:
- First Child: Rs. 5,000 disbursed in instalments throughout the pregnancy and after childbirth.
- First Installment (Rs. 1,000): Provided after registration and completion of at least one prenatal checkup.
- Second Installment (Rs. 2,000): Disbursed after the completion of six months of pregnancy and additional medical checkups.
- Third Installment (Rs. 2,000): Provided after the child's birth and first vaccination.
- Second Daughter: Rs. 6,000 as a lump sum after the birth of the second daughter, promoting gender equality and supporting families with daughters.