Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presenting Union Budget 2025, highlighting key initiatives for women's empowerment, financial inclusion, and health schemes.

Union Budget 2025: Key Highlights & Impact on Women’s Empowerment in India

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  • Post last modified:February 2, 2025

The Union Budget 2025, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, marks a significant milestone in India’s journey towards women’s empowerment. With a strong focus on financial inclusion, entrepreneurship, health, and retirement security, this budget introduces several initiatives aimed at fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for women across the country.

Key Women-Focused Initiatives in Union Budget 2025

1. Financial Inclusion & Support for Women Entrepreneurs

One of the standout announcements is a new financial scheme offering term loans up to ₹2 crore for first-time women entrepreneurs, as well as individuals from Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. This initiative is expected to:

  • Provide financial support to women-led businesses.
  • Encourage women’s entrepreneurship and innovation.
  • Foster economic independence and employment generation.

These measures aim to break barriers and create new opportunities for women in business and startups.

2. Health & Nutrition: Saksham Anganwadi & Poshan 2.0

Recognizing the importance of women and child health, the government has expanded Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0 programs. These initiatives focus on:

  • Providing essential nutrition to 8 crore children and women.
  • Enhancing healthcare accessibility in rural and urban areas.
  • Ensuring better maternal and child health outcomes.

By strengthening these programs, the budget aims to improve overall nutrition levels and reduce malnutrition among women and children.

3. Retirement Security: NPS Vatsalya Scheme

To ensure financial stability for women in their later years, the government has introduced the NPS Vatsalya Scheme, which includes:

  • Tax exemptions for contributions up to ₹50,000 per year.
  • Encouragement for women to save for retirement.
  • Long-term financial independence and security.

This initiative empowers women to take control of their future financial planning.

The Vision for Inclusive Growth

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s eighth consecutive budget underscores the government’s commitment to fostering an equitable and inclusive society. By focusing on financial empowerment, entrepreneurship, health, and retirement security, the Union Budget 2025 lays a strong foundation for women’s development in India.

How Nishchaya Foundation Supports Women Empowerment

At Nishchaya Foundation, we applaud these initiatives and remain dedicated to:

  • Promoting financial literacy for women.
  • Supporting women entrepreneurs through mentorship and resources.
  • Advocating for better healthcare and nutrition.

We believe these measures will play a crucial role in empowering women and building a stronger India.

Join the Conversation

What do you think about the Union Budget 2025’s impact on women? Share your thoughts in the comments or explore how Nishchaya Foundation is working towards women’s empowerment in India!