- Maherghar Yojana is an effective initiative to reduce maternal and child mortality in tribal areas of Maharashtra.
- Although Maherghar facilities are available in 55 health centers in Nashik district, only a few women are utilizing this scheme.
- Pregnant women are offered free facilities including a stay at the hospital three days before delivery, meals, medical care, and personal attention.
Maherghar Yojana in Maharashtra is a major step for the health of pregnant women and their children in tribal regions. This scheme aims to reduce maternal and infant mortality. It provides a safe and caring environment in special health centers for women from remote and difficult areas to stay before delivery.
How Does Maherghar Yojana Help?
Pregnant women are encouraged to get admitted to health centers 3 to 15 days before delivery. This ensures timely and safe delivery. In tribal areas where transportation and roads are challenging, the Maherghar facility proves very beneficial. These centers offer free accommodation, food, hygiene, and complete medical services.
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Facilities Provided Under the Scheme
Each beneficiary at the Maherghar center receives ₹300 per day for food and ₹200 for maintenance. Free lodging and meals are provided for the pregnant woman, her child (if any), and one accompanying relative. Ambulance and emergency medical services are also available if needed.
Challenges and Solutions in the Scheme
Women in tribal areas face social and economic hurdles like not getting leave from farm work, making early admission (3–15 days before delivery) difficult. To overcome this, awareness must be increased, and additional support for working women should be offered. Building trust through local engagement and explaining the benefits of the scheme is crucial.
Maherghar Yojana in Tribal Regions of Maharashtra
The Maherghar Yojana is rapidly expanding across tribal districts including Nashik. In the financial year 2022–23, 78 centers were active in 9 districts. Nashik district has seen major growth in this scheme.
Number of Maherghar Centers and Beneficiaries in Nashik
Initially, there were only two Maherghar centers in Nashik district. Now, the number has increased to 55 centers. There are 9 in Kalwan, 7 in Peth, 8 in Surgana, 2 each in Dhondegaon and Jategaon (Nashik), 7 in Trimbakeshwar, 10 in Dindori, 5 in Igatpuri, and 3 in Deola. Still, actual participation remains low, as noted by the Health Department.
Reasons for Low Participation in Local Areas
The scheme is underutilized in Peth and Trimbakeshwar talukas. For example, only four women are availing the facility in Jogmodi (Peth) and Chinchohol (Trimbakeshwar). Therefore, more awareness campaigns are needed in these areas. It’s crucial to understand local issues and address the indifference.
| Key Information Summary | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Maherghar Centers (Nashik) | 55 Primary Health Centers |
| Number of Beneficiaries for Delivery (Nashik) | Only 4 women (low participation in specific areas) |
| Daily Allowance for Food and Maintenance | ₹300 for food, ₹200 for maintenance |
| Scheme Objective | To reduce maternal and infant mortality; ensure safe deliveries |
| More Info & Application Office | National Rural Health Mission – Maharashtra Official Site |
Maherghar Yojana is a good public health initiative, but its success depends on increasing women’s participation and addressing local challenges. If someone around you is pregnant, they should definitely take advantage of this scheme—it greatly supports safe deliveries.