- Women workers are becoming economically and socially empowered in Chhattisgarh
- Dr. Daneshwari Sambhakar
Deputy Director (Public Relations)
International Workers’ Day, celebrated every year on May 1st, is an occasion to honor the contributions of workers. This day is also special in Chhattisgarh because the participation of women workers in the economy is steadily increasing and their contribution is becoming more effective than ever.
While women in rural areas of the state have long been active in occupations such as agriculture, forest produce collection, tendu leaf plucking, and handicrafts, in urban areas their presence has rapidly increased in construction, domestic services, and small businesses. This change is not limited to employment; it is also strengthening women’s social identity and self-reliance. Nevertheless, it is also true that women workers in the unorganized sector have long been deprived of basic amenities such as fair wages, safe workplaces, and social security. Wage disparities, limited healthcare facilities, lack of maternity benefits, and traditional mindsets continue to be obstacles for them.
Addressing these challenges, the state government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai, has prioritized the empowerment of women workers. New labor policies have implemented concrete initiatives to ensure minimum wages for women in the unorganized sector and enforce workplace safety standards. Mahila Shakti Kendras have been developed not only as support centers but also as effective channels for counseling, legal assistance, and employment guidance. Sakhi One Stop Centers provide immediate assistance and rehabilitation to women affected by violence.
Various state-run schemes are building a strong foundation for security and self-reliance in the lives of women workers. Under the Minimata Mahatari Jatan Yojana, registered female construction workers are provided with a 20,000 rupee post-delivery assistance, reducing financial pressure. The Chief Minister’s Sewing Machine Assistance Scheme encourages women to pursue self-employment, while the Construction Laborer Safety Equipment Assistance Scheme ensures their safety at the workplace.
Under the Mahtari Vandan Yojana, women are provided financial assistance of ₹1,000 per month, strengthening their financial situation. Under the Didi E-Rickshaw Assistance Scheme, registered construction women workers aged 18 to 50, who have been registered for at least three years, are being linked to self-employment by providing assistance of up to ₹1 lakh.
Additionally, self-help groups are being promoted through the National Rural Livelihood Mission, providing women with income sources and opportunities to develop leadership skills. The state government’s skill development programs are training women workers and connecting them to employment. Special schemes are being implemented for domestic workers, contract laborers, and porter families, while the Saksham scheme provides widows, abandoned women, and divorced women with the opportunity to become self-reliant.
Today, women workers in Chhattisgarh are no longer merely a labor force, but have become active partners in development. Their role is no longer limited to support, but has expanded to include decision-making. Increasing access and awareness of schemes has boosted their self-confidence, leading to a growing respect for them in society.
The efforts being made for women workers in Chhattisgarh clearly demonstrate that positive change is possible through sensitive policies and effective implementation. With security, respect, and employment opportunities, women workers are becoming a strong foundation for the state’s development. This change is not only economic, but also a symbol of social awareness and empowerment.