Raipur - Chhattisgarh has achieved another remarkable milestone in strengthening maternal and child health. The state has been successful in establishing a strong identity among the leading states in the country through the effective implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY). Through a transparent Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system, continuous monitoring by the state government, and the dedicated efforts of Anganwadi workers, timely financial assistance is being provided to millions of pregnant and lactating women in the state. Women and Child Development and Social Welfare Minister, Smt. Laxmi Rajwade, while informing about this achievement of the scheme, said that Chhattisgarh is continuously setting new standards in the field of maternal safety, nutrition, and women's welfare.

Minister Laxmi Rajwade stated that 14,49,309 eligible beneficiaries have been successfully registered in the state so far. More than ₹558.93 crore has been transferred directly to the bank accounts of these eligible women through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). She added that due to the transparent payment system, beneficiaries are receiving timely financial assistance without any middlemen.

He stated that the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) is one of the world's largest DBT-based maternity assistance schemes. According to a case study by an international organization, the scheme has proven highly effective in improving the health and nutrition of pregnant women and newborns. The positive impact of the scheme has also contributed to a significant reduction in maternal and infant mortality rates.

Minister Smt. Rajwade said that the state government's goal is not only to provide financial assistance, but also to connect every pregnant woman with safe motherhood, improved nutrition, and quality health services. To this end, the department is regularly monitoring the schemes and ensuring timely registration of eligible beneficiaries.

* Beware of cyber fraud in the name of schemes

Amidst the success of the scheme, Minister Smt. Laxmi Rajwade specifically alerted the people of the state about the activities of cyber criminals. She stated that in some districts, complaints have been received about fraudulent phone calls being made in the name of the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana, demanding OTPs, bank account details, or money from women.

Appealing to the people of the state, he said, "If an unknown person calls in the name of the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana and demands OTP, bank information, or any amount of money, do not fall for their words. Such calls may be from cyber fraudsters. In any suspicious situation, immediately contact your nearest Anganwadi worker or the relevant department. The most effective way to prevent cyber crime is awareness and vigilance."

Minister Smt. Rajwade stated that the Women and Child Development Department has issued instructions to all districts to educate beneficiary women about cybersecurity through Anganwadi centers. Also, accurate information about the scheme should be disseminated to every village so that no woman becomes a victim of fraud.