The Swadhar Greh Scheme is a critical social welfare initiative by the Government of India, designed to provide support and shelter to women in distress. Launched by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, the scheme focuses on women who are in difficult situations, such as those who are homeless, abandoned, survivors of violence, or without family support.

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Beneficiaries

1. Women who are deserted and are without any social and economic support;
2. Women survivors of natural disasters who have been rendered homeless and are without any social and economic support;
3. Women prisoners released from jail and are without family, social and economic support;
4. Women victims of domestic violence, family tension or discord, who are made to leave their homes without any means of subsistence and have no special protection from exploitation and/ or facing litigation on account of marital disputes; and
5. Trafficked women/girls rescued or run away from brothels or other places where they face exploitation and Women affected by HIV/AIDS who do not have any social or economic support. However such women/ girls should first seek assistance under UJJAWALA Scheme in areas where it is in operation.
6. Women affected by domestic violence could stay up to one year. For other categories of women, the maximum period of stay could be up to 3 years. The older women above the 55 years of age may be accommodated for a maximum period of 5 years after which they will have to shift to old age homes or similar institutions.

Objective of the Swadhar Greh Scheme

The primary aim of the Swadhar Greh Scheme is to create a supportive environment for women facing crises. It addresses the immediate needs of women in distress by providing them with:

• Shelter
• Food
• Clothing
• Medical aid
• Legal assistance
• Counselling

In addition to these basic amenities, the scheme also emphasizes empowering women through vocational and skill development programs, helping them to reintegrate into society and become economically independent.

Strategies

1. Temporary residential accommodation with the provision of food, clothing, medical facilities, etc.
2. Vocational and skill up-gradation training for economic rehabilitation of such women
3. Counseling, awareness generation and behavioral training
4. Legal aid and Guidance
5. Counseling through telephone

Who Benefits from the Scheme?

The Swadhar Greh Scheme is specifically designed for women who fall into vulnerable categories, including:

• Widows and destitute women
• Women survivors of natural disasters
• Victims of domestic violence
• Women who are deserted or facing family rejection
• Trafficked women rescued or released from brothels or other exploitative situations

Structure of the Scheme

Under the Swadhar Greh Scheme, the government sets up shelter homes (called Swadhar Grehs) across the country. Each Swadhar Greh accommodates up to 30 women, providing them with a safe and supportive environment. These homes are equipped with all necessary facilities, including dormitories, kitchens, and counseling rooms.

Swadhar Greh homes are typically operated by non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that are selected and funded by the government. The NGOs are responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the shelters, offering legal aid, vocational training, and other necessary services to help women rebuild their lives.

Key Features of the Swadhar Greh Scheme

1. Holistic Care: The scheme takes a multi-dimensional approach to care, addressing physical, emotional, and psychological needs of women in crisis.
2. Skill Development: Women residing in Swadhar Grehs are encouraged to participate in various skill development and vocational training programs. This empowers them to become self-reliant and capable of supporting themselves financially.
3. Legal Assistance: The scheme provides legal aid to women facing legal disputes, including those related to divorce, domestic violence, and property rights.
4. Counselling Services: Psychological support is a key component of the Swadhar Greh Scheme. Counsellors are available to help women cope with trauma and provide guidance on life skills and decision-making.
5. Rehabilitation and Reintegration: The ultimate goal of the scheme is to rehabilitate and reintegrate women back into society by facilitating employment opportunities and helping them find long-term housing solutions.

Impact of the Scheme

Since its inception, the Swadhar Greh Scheme has had a profound impact on the lives of many women in India. It has provided a lifeline to those who would otherwise be left vulnerable and unsupported. By offering a comprehensive support system, the scheme not only shelters women but also empowers them to rebuild their lives and regain their dignity.

Conclusion

The Swadhar Greh Scheme is a vital step towards the protection and empowerment of women in distress. By providing shelter, care, and the tools necessary for self-sufficiency, the scheme helps women regain control over their lives, creating a ripple effect that benefits not just the individual but society as a whole.