Dhaka: The government’s maternity allowance programme is making significant strides by supporting approximately 1.6 million insolvent pregnant mothers and their newborns, addressing crucial prenatal care, health, and nutritional needs.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, this 36-month initiative distributes funds via G2P (Government to Person) transfers directly to beneficiaries’ preferred financial accounts, including mobile financial services (MFS), banks, or other institutions. bKash has emerged as a popular choice among recipients due to its convenient and secure services, allowing mothers to manage their government allowances from home.
Since the fiscal year 2018-19, the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs has been spearheading the programme to improve women’s and children’s health and nutrition and reduce the birth of malnourished infants. By prioritising mothers’ preferences for receiving allowances, the programme ensures time-saving benefits, enabling them to focus on their and their newborns’ well-being.
A significant number of mothers are receiving their allowances directly into bKash accounts, facilitating easy and secure transactions. They can cash out funds at nearby agent points or conduct various digital transactions directly from their accounts. This allowance acts as social security, helping mothers purchase nutritious food, undergo regular health checkups, and procure necessary items for their newborns.
The Maternity Allowance Programme for Insolvent Mothers is a vital initiative by the Ministry and the Department of Women’s Affairs, providing monthly allowances for the first and second children (up to two). In addition to financial support, the programme also organises regular courtyard meetings focusing on nutrition, psychosocial well-being, and child development.