For the favour of Publication
Unpacking the Modi Government's Interim Budget 2024: A Critical Review
from Women's Perspective
The recently unveiled Interim Budget 2024 by the Modi government claims to
prioritize women's empowerment, heralding a series of initiatives aimed at
fostering financial and social reforms. While some commendable steps have
been taken, a critical examination from a women's perspective is imperative to
assess the depth and efficacy of these measures.
Undoubtedly, the budget acknowledges the changing dynamics of female
voters, projecting a significant turnout and foreseeing women voters
surpassing their male counterparts soon. Initiatives such as the allocation of 30
crore Mudra Yojana loans for women entrepreneurs and the commendable
rise in female enrolment in higher education showcase a proactive approach
towards economic and educational empowerment.
The government's emphasis on dignity and rights is evident in making 'Triple
Talaq' illegal and reserving one-third of seats for women in legislative
assemblies. Additionally, the allocation of over seventy per cent of houses
under the PM Awas Yojana in rural areas to women as sole or joint owners
aims to enhance their socio-economic status. These moves, if effectively
implemented, can significantly contribute to bridging gender disparities.
Addressing healthcare concerns, particularly the prevention of cervical cancer
and the extension of Ayushman Bharat coverage, demonstrates a commitment
to women's health. Encouraging vaccination for girls aged 9 to 14 and
implementing comprehensive maternal and child care programs align with the
broader goal of ensuring holistic well-being.
Despite these positive strides, critical aspects remain unaddressed. The budget
lacks specificity in outlining detailed implementation plans for initiatives like
the Mudra Yojana loans, leaving room for ambiguity and potential uneven
distribution. The focus on upgrading anganwadi centres is praiseworthy, but a
concrete plan for monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of these
upgrades is necessary.
The budget would benefit from transparent evaluation metrics and a detailed
roadmap for implementation, especially regarding healthcare initiatives and
political empowerment. A more explicit commitment to long-term
sustainability would ensure that the impact of these initiatives endures beyond
the immediate future.
In conclusion, while the Modi government's Interim Budget 2024 reflects a
positive inclination towards women's empowerment, a constructive critique
underscores the need for detailed implementation plans, transparency, and a
focus on long-term sustainability. The success of these initiatives hinges on
meticulous execution, monitoring mechanisms, and a commitment to
addressing nuanced challenges faced by women across various sections of
society.
