Ministry of Social Empowerment & Welfare

The Ministry of Social Empowerment & Welfare (MoSEW) is dedicated to creating an inclusive society where every citizen can lead a dignified, productive life. Our mission focuses on:

• Eradicating poverty and reducing vulnerability.
• Ensuring equitable access to health, education and social services.
• Promoting the rights and welfare of children, women, the elderly, and persons with disabilities.
• Fostering community participation and empowerment.

By 2030, MoSEW envisions a nation where social protection systems are robust, resilient, and responsive, guaranteeing that no one is left behind. We aim to build a social fabric that nurtures human potential, fuels sustainable development, and upholds human dignity.

• Policy formulation: Drafting legislation, strategies and guidelines for social welfare.
• Program implementation: Managing national schemes such as cash transfers, health insurance, and skill development.
• Monitoring & evaluation: Tracking outcomes to ensure effectiveness and accountability.
• Research & advocacy: Conducting studies on poverty trends and advocating for vulnerable groups.
• Coordination: Working with ministries, NGOs, and international agencies to harmonize efforts.

1. National Social Safety Net (NSSN)

A cash assistance scheme targeting lowincome households, providing regular unconditional transfers to improve food security and health outcomes.

2. Universal Health Coverage (UHC) for the Poor

Free primary and secondary healthcare services for families below the poverty line, covering maternal care, immunizations, and chronic disease management.

3. Womens Economic Empowerment Programme (WEEP)

Offers microcredit, vocational training, and market linkage support to women entrepreneurs in rural and periurban areas.

4. Disability Inclusion Initiative (DII)

Ensures accessibility of public spaces, education, and employment opportunities for persons with disabilities through assistive devices and inclusive policies.

5. Senior Citizens Support Scheme (SCSS)

Provides a monthly stipend, free health checkups, and community activity centers for the elderly.

Since its establishment, the Ministry has reduced extreme poverty by 3.2percentage points and increased school enrollment for children from lowincome families by 7percent. Ongoing monitoring shows a 15percent decline in household food insecurity among program participants.

MoSEW works closely with a network of partners to expand reach and improve service delivery:

• United Nations Development Programme (UNDP): Technical assistance for poverty reduction strategies.
• World Bank: Funding for social safety nets and data systems.
• Local NGOs: Community mobilization, grievance redressal and grassroots implementation.
• Private sector: Job matching platforms and corporate social responsibility programmes.
• Academic institutions: Research collaborations on social impact measurement.