Women’s Empowerment through Co-ownership in Property Cards under the SVAMITVA Scheme
By >>Sushil Kumar Lohani, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj
the distribution of 65 lakh SVAMITVA Property Cards marked a historic achievement in rural empowerment. This initiative highlights the government’s focus on securing property rights and promoting inclusive rural development, particularly by empowering women and marginalized communities.
Empowering Women through Land Ownership
Despite their significant role in agriculture and household management, rural women in India have often been denied legal land ownership. This lack of recognition limits their financial independence and perpetuates gender inequality. The SVAMITVA Scheme is changing this by recognizing women as co-owners of family properties, granting them financial security and decision-making authority over land use and resources.
For instance, in Pune, Maharashtra, co-ownership initiatives have dramatically increased the percentage of women-owned properties from 16% to 88%, enabling them to access loans, start businesses, and achieve economic stability.
Impact on Rural Development
Land ownership under the scheme provides women with access to financial services like loans and credit, fostering their economic independence. Beneficiaries, such as Smt. Shaliya Siddiqui from Madhya Pradesh, report improved access to resources and legal security.
Beyond finances, land rights reduce risks like displacement and domestic violence, empowering women to actively participate in household and community governance. This aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those focused on poverty eradication and tenure security.
Transformative Outcomes
Implemented across 31 states, the scheme has covered 3.17 lakh villages through drone surveys, unlocking a land value of ₹132 lakh crore. By formalizing property rights and promoting women’s inclusion, the SVAMITVA Scheme is creating a more equitable, prosperous rural India, advancing the nation’s vision for 2047.
This initiative symbolizes progress, breaking barriers, and fostering inclusive growth for generations to come.
