MP government rolls out 35% reservation for women in state job openings

Aiming to bridge gender gaps and boost inclusivity, Madhya Pradesh's government has approved a historic 35% job reservation for women in state services, underscoring its commitment to women's empowerment and paving the way for a more balanced workforce.

In Short

• MP cabinet approves 35% women reservation in government jobs
• 254 new fertiliser sales centres to ease farmer access
• 660 MW power plant to replace older units in Sarni

In a significant development to promote gender equality, the Madhya Pradesh cabinet, led by Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, has approved a 35 percent reservation for women in all state government recruitment. The decision, made at a cabinet meeting held at Mantralaya, increases the previous quota of 33 percent, marking a major step toward empowering women.

Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla highlighted the importance of this move, stating that it demonstrates the state’s dedication to enhancing opportunities for women. “The decision was taken earlier, and today, it was approved by the state cabinet. It is a major step toward women’s empowerment,” Shukla told ANI.

KEY CABINET DECISIONS

In addition to the landmark reservation policy, the cabinet approved several other measures aimed at improving the state’s infrastructure and investment climate:

1. New Fertiliser Sales Centres have been introduced to alleviate long queues for fertiliser. The government has sanctioned 254 new sales centres across the state. These centres will allow farmers to easily purchase fertilisers through cash payments, streamlining agricultural operations.
2. The cabinet approved the establishment of a 660 MW critical thermal power plant in Sarni. This project will replace older power units totalling 830 MW, addressing energy needs more efficiently.
3. The age limit for hiring Assistant Professors in Medical Colleges has been raised from 40 to 50 years, aiming to widen the pool of qualified candidates and fill critical teaching positions.

THE SUCCESS OF REGIONAL INDUSTRIAL CONCLAVES

Deputy CM Shukla also reflected on the success of the recent Regional Industrial Conclave in Rewa, which attracted around 4,000 investors and business leaders. This event yielded investment proposals worth Rs 31,000 crore and promises to create over 28,000 jobs in the state. The conclaves are part of a larger prelude to the "Invest Madhya Pradesh-Global Investor Summit-2025" (GIS-2025), set for February 7-8 in Bhopal.

The GIS-2025 aims to showcase Madhya Pradesh’s potential as a prime investment destination, leveraging its rich resources and conducive industrial environment. Regional conclaves have been conducted in various cities, including Ujjain, Jabalpur, Gwalior, Sagar, and, most recently, Rewa, as part of these promotional efforts.

LEGACY OF WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT UNDER SHIVRAJ SINGH’S GOVERNMENT

Since Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan’s tenure began, the Madhya Pradesh government has consistently prioritised initiatives aimed at uplifting women. Under his leadership, a series of impactful reforms and schemes have been introduced, setting a precedent for other states in women’s empowerment:

1. Ladli Laxmi Yojana: Launched in 2007, this scheme has transformed the lives of countless girls by providing financial incentives from birth until adulthood, ensuring that education and healthcare needs are met. This initiative has played a crucial role in addressing issues of gender disparity and female infanticide.
2. Mukhyamantri Kanya Vivah/Nikah Yojana: Under this scheme, financial assistance is provided for the weddings of daughters from economically weaker sections, ensuring that parents are not burdened with marriage expenses.
3. Reserved Panchayat Seats: The Chouhan government allocated 50% of Panchayat seats to women, giving them significant decision-making power at the grassroots level and enhancing female representation in rural governance.
4. Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and Livelihood Initiatives: Various programs have been implemented to promote women's entrepreneurship and skill development. SHGs have been instrumental in making women self-reliant and economically independent, often supported through state subsidies and training.
5. Mission Shakti: Focused on women’s safety, this campaign has aimed at providing a safe environment for women through the installation of surveillance systems, the establishment of women’s help desks at police stations, and stricter law enforcement.
6. Women’s Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs): The establishment of ITIs dedicated to women has enhanced technical education and skills, allowing more women to enter diverse trades and technical fields.
7. Mukhya Mantri Nari Samman Yojana: This program addresses gender-based violence and provides resources for victim support, emphasising the importance of a dignified life for women in the state.

Through these sustained efforts and recent advancements, Madhya Pradesh continues to pave the way for women's empowerment and economic development. The state's focus on creating an equitable society and fostering a robust investment climate has set a strong example for the nation.