Why In News

The Assam Chief Minister is set to launch a Women’s Entrepreneurship Fund under the Mukhyamantri Mahila Udyamita Abhiyan (MMUA / “Mahila Udyamita Abhijan”).

Key Points

• The distribution is part of the broader MMUA scheme, which aims to support women entrepreneurs, especially those in Self-Help Groups (SHGs).
• In the second phase, 33,909 women SHG members are to receive ₹10,000 each as seed funding.
• In a recent event in Margherita (Tinsukia district), 18,370 women were given grants totalling ₹18.37 crore, each getting ₹10,000 in seed capital.
• The fund is structured in phases. 
  • After productive use of the initial seed amount, eligible beneficiaries can receive further amounts (e.g. ₹25,000) and eventually access bank loans up to ₹50,000, with interest/subsidy assistance.
• Significance: The fund empowers women by promoting financial autonomy, reducing dependence on microfinance, and fostering inclusive economic growth through Self-Help Groups (SHGs).

Q. Consider the following statements about the Women’s Entrepreneurship Fund launched in Assam:

1. It is part of the Mukhyamantri Mahila Udyamita Abhiyan (MMUA) scheme.
2. Under the scheme, women Self-Help Group (SHG) members are given seed funding in a phased manner.
3. The scheme provides an initial grant of ₹10,000, with scope for higher amounts and access to bank loans in later stages.
   

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: D