For First Time in World History, Work of Homemakers is Being Officially Recognized by Government: M. B. Rajesh

Thiruvananthapuram: Minister for Local Self-Government M B Rajesh said that the 'Stree Suraksha Scheme' is a declaration that, for the first time in world history, a government is officially recognising the labour of homemakers. He pointed out that until now, the work done by homemakers was invisible and never counted in any economic calculation. However, the LDF government acknowledges that this labour has value. The minister added that this scheme would soon become another “Kerala Model” that the world looks up to.

Applications Open for ‘Stree Suraksha Scheme’

Applications for the Stree Suraksha Scheme, announced by the LDF government, have begun from Monday. Applications must be submitted through the website ksmart.lsgkerala.gov.in to the secretaries of the respective local self-government institutions.

Under the scheme, women from poor families — including trans women — who are not beneficiaries of any other social welfare scheme will receive 1,000 rupees per month as financial assistance. Around 31.34 lakh women are expected to benefit from the scheme, with the government spending 3,800 crore rupees annually. This is the first scheme of its kind in the country.

Who Can Apply?

Women who are not currently beneficiaries of any other social welfare schemes or pensions in the state are eligible to apply.

The scheme is open to permanent residents of Kerala aged between 35 and 60 years, belonging to families holding Antyodaya Anna Yojana (yellow card) or Priority category (pink card) ration cards. Trans women are also eligible for the benefit.

Applicants must submit any one of the following documents as proof of age:

Birth certificate

School certificate

Driving licence

Passport

If none of these are available, a certificate issued by a medical officer can be used.

Applicants must also provide bank account details, IFSC code, and Aadhaar details along with the application. A self-attested declaration must be included.

Beneficiaries are required to complete annual Aadhaar-based mustering every year to continue receiving the assistance.