Govt unveils 10 point plan for women empowerment and maternal health

Vijayawada: The State government on Saturday unveiled a comprehensive 10-point plan aimed at strengthening women's empowerment, improving maternal and child health, and enhancing women's participation in the workforce.The policy seeks to ensure social and economic equality while promoting population stabilisation through a women-centric approach. Health Minister Y Satya Kumar Yadav said the government is committed to removing barriers that prevent women from emerging as equal contributors to the economy.Key measures include establishing crèches at workplaces with more than 50 employees to support childcare for children up to six years of age, and setting up one working women's hostel for every one lakh population in urban areas.The minister also launched the campaign "Shared Responsibility in Childcare" to encourage male participation. A major reform in parental leave was proposed — extending maternity leave from 180 days to a 12-month parental leave, equally shareable between both parents. Addressing reproductive health, Satya Kumar Yadav stated that nearly 12 lakh families in the state are facing infertility issues. The govt has decided to provide fertility services free of cost and will take steps to enhance the skills of medical professionals in delivering such services.The govt has set a target to reduce infertility-related issues by 40% over the next five years. It also aims to bring down early-age pregnancies from the current 9% to 3%, the health minister said.The minister further clarified that the state is shifting its focus from population control to "population care," with plans to create a large workforce of care service providers. He noted that there will be significant demand for professionals in childcare and elderly care sectors.Expressing concern over the low participation of women in the workforce, currently at 31%, the minister said the govt aims to raise it to 61%, on par with men. He added that achieving this target could boost the state's gross domestic product by 15%.To support this goal, the govt is proposing flexible working hours and work-from-home opportunities. It also plans to address issues such as unfavourable working conditions, gender discrimination, and societal barriers that limit women's participation and male involvement in childcare.