The Government of India continues to roll out welfare schemes aimed at improving the lives of women, workers, and economically weaker sections. One such flagship maternity benefit scheme is the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY). Under this scheme, eligible pregnant women receive financial assistance of ₹6,000, helping them meet nutritional and healthcare needs during pregnancy and childbirth.

The core objective of PMMVY is to ensure better maternal health, proper nutrition, and safe delivery, especially for women from financially weaker backgrounds.

What is Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana?

Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana is a central government maternity assistance scheme that provides direct cash benefits to pregnant women and lactating mothers. Many women are unable to afford adequate nutrition or medical care during pregnancy due to financial constraints. PMMVY addresses this gap by transferring money directly to the beneficiary’s bank account in phases.

The scheme was launched on January 1, 2017 and has since helped millions of women across India experience safer pregnancies and healthier childbirths.

Who is eligible to apply?

To receive benefits under PMMVY, the applicant must meet the following conditions:

• The applicant must be pregnant

• Benefits are primarily provided for the first living child

• Women working in government jobs or those receiving maternity benefits under any other law are not eligible

Documents required

Applicants need the following documents to apply:

• Aadhaar card of the mother and father

• Birth certificate of the child (required for later instalments)

• Bank account details and a copy of the passbook (for DBT transfer)

How is the ₹6,000 amount given?

The total assistance of ₹6,000 is provided in multiple stages, ensuring support throughout pregnancy and after delivery:

1. First instalment – ₹1,000
   Given at the time of pregnancy registration

2. Second instalment – ₹2,000
   Given after six months of pregnancy and completion of at least one antenatal check-up

3. Third instalment – ₹2,000
   Given after the child’s birth is registered and the vaccination process begins

4. Final support – ₹1,000
   Provided at the time of delivery to the hospital or adjusted against maternity-related medical benefits

What’s new in 2026?

Several updates have been introduced to make PMMVY more accessible and beneficiary-friendly:

• Private hospitals included: Women can now avail scheme benefits even when treated at private hospitals

• Improved online application system: The portal has been upgraded to reduce paperwork and visits

• Dedicated helpline support: State-wise helplines have been activated; beneficiaries can also call 7998799804 for guidance

How to apply online?

Women can apply from home by following these steps:

1. Visit the official website: wcd.nic.in

2. Click on “Back Office Login”

3. Enter your email ID, password, and captcha

4. Fill out the application form carefully

5. Recheck details and submit the form

Offline application process

Women who prefer offline registration can visit their nearest Anganwadi centre or health centre. There, three prescribed forms need to be filled. After submission, collect the acknowledgement receipt, which can later be used at the hospital to claim benefits.