NEW DELHI: The gender-focused allocation in the 2025-26 Budget has increased significantly. It now constitutes 8.86% of the total budget, up from 6.8% in FY 2024-25.
A new scheme has been introduced to provide financial support to 5 lakh first-time entrepreneurs from disadvantaged backgrounds, including women, Scheduled Castes (SC), and Scheduled Tribes (ST). Eligible entrepreneurs can avail themselves of loans of up to ₹2 crore over the next five years.
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Rohit Gajbhiye, Founder and MD of LEO1, stated, “The ₹2 crore loan scheme for first-time women, SC, and ST entrepreneurs can drive job creation and economic participation. These initiatives have the potential to shape India’s education and business landscape. Their success will depend on effective implementation, industry partnerships, and ensuring accessibility for those who need it most.”
LEO1 is a platform that assists parents and students in paying educational fees through easy installments. It offers EMIs starting from 0% interest for durations of up to 24 months.
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Highlighting the economic empowerment of women, Union Minister for Women and Child Development,Annpurna Devi stated, “Women entrepreneurs are a driving force behind India’s economic progress. By providing targeted financial support and skill-building programs, we are fostering an inclusive and equitable entrepreneurial ecosystem.”
The Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD) has allocated a record ₹4.49 lakh crore for women’s welfare, marking a 37.25% increase from last year. A substantial 81.79% of the Ministry’s budget has been dedicated to gender-focused initiatives, reaffirming the government’s commitment to gender equality and women-led development.
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During her address, the Union Minister also announced the 7th edition of Poshan Pakhwada, scheduled from March 18 to April 2, along with the establishment of 1,000 Suposhit Gram Panchayats by the end of the year.
Additionally, the Ministry has launched a digital exhibition at Mahakumbh 2025 in Prayagraj, showcasing India’s progress in women-led development through an interactive display of various schemes, policies, and programs.
