The government’s maternity allowance programme supports 1.6 million insolvent pregnant mothers and their newborns to address crucial prenatal care, health and nutritional needs. This 36-month programme distributes funds via G2P (Government to Person) transfers directly to beneficiaries’ preferred MFS, bank, or other financial institution accounts. All beneficiaries receive their allowances through their chosen method, with bKash being the most reliable option. Mothers widely prefer bKash accounts due to its convenient, fast and secured services, allowing them to easily receive and manage their government allowances from the comfort of their home.
Since the 2018-19 fiscal year, the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs has been providing allowances to insolvent pregnant mothers to improve the health and nutrition of women and children, and to reduce birth of malnourished infants. The programme prioritises mothers’ preferences, allowing them to receive allowances in their chosen accounts, thus saving time and enabling them to focus on their own and their newborns’ well-being.
A large number of insolvent pregnant mothers are receiving their allowance payments directly into their bKash accounts from the comfort of their homes. They can easily and securely cash out the money from nearby agent points, as well as make various digital transactions directly from their bKash accounts. This allowance is providing social security by reducing risks and impacts during pregnancy and beyond, including buying nutritious food, getting regular health checkups, and buying necessary items for the newborn.
The Maternity Allowance Programme for Insolvent Mothers is a key initiative of the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs and the Department of Women’s Affairs, designed to support and empower vulnerable pregnant women. This programme provides monthly allowances to insolvent pregnant mothers for their first and second children (maximum two). Beyond financial assistance, the programme also facilitates regular courtyard meetings focused on nutrition, psychosocial well-being, and child development.