A major social project aimed at recognizing and valuing domestic work is being implemented in India. This was reported by Zamin.uz.
Within this initiative, regular financial assistance is being provided by the government to housewives in several states of the country. Special cash transfers are allocated to women engaged in managing households and caring for children and the elderly.
The BBC has reported on this program. Currently, the program is active in at least 12 states of India.
According to official data, the number of women benefiting from the program has approached 118 million. Payments are transferred directly to the women's personal bank accounts.
No reporting on the expenditure of the funds is required. The monthly payment amount varies by state from 1000 to 2500 rupees, approximately 12–30 US dollars.
This funding is especially significant for rural areas and low-income families and is mainly spent on daily necessities, food, and children's education. Experts believe the project is aimed not only at financial assistance but also at the formal recognition and appreciation of domestic work.
According to international organizations, women's labor related to household management and caregiving is often not accounted for in the economic system. This limits their economic opportunities.
Thanks to this program, many women are achieving financial independence, strengthening their position in the family, and increasing their self-confidence. At the same time, lively debates continue around the project.
Some critics emphasize that such payments may reinforce gender roles and make it harder for women to enter the labor market. Others express concern that this initiative is being used for political purposes.
Government representatives assess these payments not as a "household salary" but as a social support measure. Nevertheless, this experience is being closely observed by other countries.
If the project is successful, it could pave the way for new approaches in valuing women's labor and improving social policy.
