underutilization of funds

The article highlights the underutilization of funds under the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) and the associated recommendations by a parliamentary panel. It is relevant for UPSC Prelims and Mains because it addresses key issues in social justice, governance, and welfare schemes.

Why is this important for Prelims and Mains?

UPSC Prelims

• Questions on government schemes, their objectives, and implementation challenges.

• Key provisions of PMMVY under the National Food Security Act (NFSA) and its connection to maternal health and nutrition.

• Welfare programs for pregnant and lactating women.

UPSC Mains

• GS Paper 2 (Governance, Social Justice):

  • Analysis of social sector schemes like PMMVY and their impact.

  • Issues in implementation and fund utilization.

  • Suggestions for improving maternal and child health indicators.

• GS Paper 3 (Economy):

  • Public spending efficiency in social welfare.

  • Budgetary allocations and their impact on vulnerable groups.

Key Points of the News:

1. Issue Highlighted:

• Underutilization of Funds: Parliamentary Standing Committee flagged significant underutilization of allocated funds under PMMVY.

  • In 2023-24, only ₹870.34 crore of the ₹2,067 crore budgeted amount was utilized.

  • Similarly, in 2024-25, only ₹234.46 crore was utilized till December 31.

2. PMMVY Overview

• Objective: Provides financial assistance to pregnant and lactating women as part of maternal benefit schemes.

• Current Benefits:

  • ₹5,000 in three installments for the first live birth.

  • Linked to Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY) for additional incentives.

3. Recommendations by the Panel

• Increase Assistance:

  • From ₹5,000 to ₹6,000, with periodic increases linked to inflation.

  • Align benefits with the NFSA’s provisions, ensuring coverage for every pregnant and lactating woman.

• Delink from Institutional Childbirth: Benefits should not be conditional on childbirth in health facilities (JSY focus).

4. Challenges in Implementation

• Low Coverage: Benefits restricted to the first child, excluding subsequent pregnancies.

• Administrative Vacancies:

  • 2.13 lakh vacancies in Anganwadi workers and helpers.

  • Impact on program delivery.

• Low Honorarium: Anganwadi workers’ wages below the minimum prescribed by the Centre.

5. Recommendations for Improvement

• Enhance Coverage: Extend benefits to all eligible women, not limited to the first live birth.

• Increase Allocations: Adjust budget allocations and ensure timely fund release.

• Strengthen Anganwadi System: Fill vacant positions, improve honorarium, and enhance training.

6. Importance for Social Welfare

• Directly impacts maternal and child health outcomes, particularly in rural and underprivileged areas.

• Addresses malnutrition and supports health-seeking behavior among vulnerable populations.

Conclusion

This issue highlights the gap between policy intent and implementation. While PMMVY aims to improve maternal health and nutrition, underutilization of funds and limited coverage undermine its potential impact. Addressing these challenges is crucial for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and Goal 2 (Zero Hunger).