For most women in India, managing health often takes a backseat to managing everything else, families, work, homes, and responsibilities that never seem to end. But good healthcare isn’t a luxury; it’s a right. The Indian government has several initiatives designed specifically to make women’s healthcare more accessible, affordable, and stress-free.
Here are five schemes that genuinely make a difference, from pregnancy to adolescence and beyond.
1. Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA)
For: Pregnant women, especially in their 2nd and 3rd trimester
The PMSMA offers free antenatal check-ups on the 9th of every month at government and private health facilities. Expecting mothers receive essential services such as doctor consultations, medical tests, supplements, and medicines all at no cost.
Think of it as a monthly health pit-stop for both mother and baby, ensuring safe pregnancies without financial strain.
2. Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram (JSSK)
For: All pregnant women and newborns
Under this scheme, women are entitled to completely free maternity care, including normal deliveries, C-sections, medicines, diagnostics, hospital stay, and even transport. The benefits extend to newborns as well.
It’s zero-cost maternity care from start to finish, ensuring that no woman avoids giving birth in a hospital due to expenses.
3. Ayushman Bharat: Health & Wellness Centres
For: Everyone, especially women juggling work, home, and self-care
These centres are part of the government’s broader health mission and focus on providing comprehensive primary care. Women can access free doctor consultations, medicines, basic diagnostic tests, and even wellness services like yoga sessions and counselling.
It’s healthcare made simple, approachable, and close to home, ideal for women who rarely have time to prioritise themselves.
4. Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK)
For: Adolescent girls aged 10–19
Adolescence can be confusing, but this programme ensures young girls have the right guidance and support. RKSK provides free counselling on menstrual hygiene, mental health, nutrition, and relationships, along with anaemia checks and sanitary kits.
It’s a safe, judgement-free space designed to empower girls to understand their bodies and minds better.
5. One Stop Centre (Sakhi Centres)
For: Women in distress
These centres offer comprehensive support under one roof, including medical assistance, psychological counselling, legal aid, and temporary shelter. Whether the distress is due to violence, abuse, or trauma, Sakhi Centres serve as a lifeline when women need it most.
It’s a compassionate initiative built on the belief that every woman deserves safety, dignity, and care.
These five schemes reflect a growing awareness of the unique healthcare challenges women face, from access and affordability to stigma and safety. Yet, awareness remains low. Many women still don’t know that such resources exist or that they’re entitled to use them for free.