evidence: The Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) scheme was launched in the year 2017. Under PMMVY, a cash incentive of ₹5,000/- is provided directly to the beneficiary via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mode for the first child. In the revamped PMMVY, maternity benefit is also to be provided for the second child, but only if, the second child is a girl child, to discourage pre-birth sex selection and to promote and celebrate the girl child. The eligible beneficiaries receive the remaining cash incentive, under Janani Suraksha Yojana after institutional delivery, so that on average a woman gets Rs. 6,000. As of 2024, under Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY), more than 3.32 crore beneficiaries have been enrolled and maternity benefits of more than Rs. 14,103 crore have been disbursed to over 3.11 crore beneficiaries. [...] Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana has played a crucial role in improving the lives of women by providing them with financial assistance during pregnancy and lactation periods. By compensating for the wage loss and expenses incurred during their pregnancy and post-delivery period, this scheme has not only provided economic support to women but has also encouraged them to seek timely medical care, leading to a reduction in maternal and infant mortality rates. Additionally, the scheme has increased awareness and promoted the importance of maternal and child health, thereby empowering women and improving their overall well-being.