Budget 2024-25: Focus on Women’s Health and Digital Integration

In a significant move towards achieving ‘Viksit Bharat by 2047’ and empowering women, Union Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman presented key proposals in the Interim Budget 2024-25, emphasizing women’s health and the digital integration of healthcare services.

“Highlighting the importance of preventive healthcare, Sitharaman proposed a vaccination program targeting girls aged 9 to 14 to prevent cervical cancer”. Emphasizing the government’s commitment to this initiative, she stated, “The Government will encourage this vaccination among the eligible categories.”

To streamline and enhance maternal and childcare efforts, the Finance Minister proposed the amalgamation of various schemes into one comprehensive program. This strategic move aims to bring synergy to existing programs, making them more efficient and impactful. As part of this initiative, Anganwadi Centres will be upgraded under the ‘Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0 scheme, expediting efforts to improve nutrition delivery, early childhood care, and development.

In line with the government’s Digital India initiative, Sitharaman unveiled plans for the rapid rollout of the newly designed U-WIN platform. This platform will play a pivotal role in managing immunization efforts and contribute to the ongoing Mission Indradhanush. The initiative reflects a commitment to leveraging technology to enhance healthcare delivery and ensure the success of critical vaccination programs nationwide.

The proposals put forth by Finance Minister Sitharaman in the Interim Budget underscore the government’s dedication to holistic development and the well-being of its citizens, with a specific focus on women’s health and empowerment. By integrating digital solutions and consolidating healthcare initiatives, these measures aim to create a more resilient and efficient healthcare system, contributing to the overall progress of the nation.