Mahila Police Volunteers (MPVs) Scheme

Introduction:

The Ministry of Women and Child Development, in collaboration with the Ministry of Home Affairs, has launched the Mahila Police Volunteers (MPV) Scheme to address the needs of women in distress. This central sector scheme aims to establish a vital connection between police authorities and local communities, facilitating police outreach on gender concerns. The scheme provides various benefits to MPVs, including a monthly allowance, training, and reward and recognition, to support them in their crucial role.

Monthly Allowance and Ancillary Expenses:

Under the Mahila Police Volunteers Scheme, MPVs receive a monthly allowance to cover their pocket expenses related to mobile phones and local transportation. A lump-sum value of up to Rs.1000/- per month is credited to each MPV, ensuring they have the necessary resources to carry out their duties effectively.

Training:

MPVs play a significant role in serving as a public-policy interface, and thus, they undergo a comprehensive three-day training program. This training equips them with the necessary knowledge and skills to address gender-related concerns effectively. MPVs receive Travelling Allowance and Dearness Allowance at a rate of Rs.400 per day to cover the expenses incurred during their training. These allowances are provided as one-time expenses.

Reward and Recognition:

Recognizing the exceptional contribution of MPVs, the scheme includes provisions for reward and recognition. Three outstanding performers are selected from among all the MPVs in the district, based on merit. These exceptional individuals receive cash rewards of Rs.10,000, Rs.5,000, and Rs.3,000 respectively. This gesture acknowledges their dedication and motivates them to continue their valuable work in assisting women in need.

Funding:

To implement the Mahila Police Volunteers initiative, funds are allocated from the Nirbhaya Fund. The cost-sharing ratio is followed for states, except in the case of North Eastern States, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu and Kashmir, where the Centre and the respective state or union territory share the expenses. However, in the Union Territories, 100% central assistance is provided to ensure the smooth functioning of the scheme.

Impact and Benefits:

The Mahila Police Volunteers Scheme has had a profound impact on society by addressing gender-based concerns and providing a crucial support system for women in distress. The benefits of the scheme can be summarized as follows:

1. Increased safety and security for women: The presence of MPVs enhances the safety of women in their communities. They serve as a link between the police authorities and local residents, enabling swift and efficient response to gender-related concerns.

2. Empowerment through training: The comprehensive training provided to MPVs equips them with the knowledge and skills necessary to address various issues faced by women. This training empowers them to play an active role in promoting gender equality and combating violence against women.

3. Financial assistance: The monthly allowance provided to MPVs ensures they have the necessary resources to fulfill their duties effectively. This financial support covers expenses related to mobile phones and local transportation, enabling MPVs to be accessible and responsive to the needs of women in distress.

4. Recognition and motivation: The cash rewards granted to outstanding MPVs serve as a means of recognition for their exceptional work. This recognition not only boosts their morale but also motivates other volunteers to perform their duties diligently, creating a positive impact in their communities.

Objectives

The following are the objectives of the Mahila Police Volunteers Scheme

-> To increase the reporting and response to the crimes cases and also to fight the crime against women.
-> To report incidences of violence against women like domestic violence, dowry harassment, child marriage and violence faced by women in the public places.
-> To encourage women to come forward with the complaints of violence and also provides information on remedies to take their cases to the police authorities.
-> To promote a woman-friendly environment both within and outside the police or other authorities.
-> To provide an efficient alternative for getting support and help for violence and discrimination.
-> To increase the clarity of women in the police force, the Government has carried forward this initiative to give 33% of reservation to women in the police departments by implementing it in all UTs and propagating in the States.

Eligibility Criteria

The following are the criteria to register for the Mahila Police Volunteers.

-> MPV must be a women applicant
-> The applicant should not be less than the age of 21 years.
It is obligatory for the applicant to possess the certification of at least 12th pass.
-> The applicant must be from the same geographical area and conversant with the local language.
-> The women applicant should not have been convicted/imprisoned for the violation under any criminal law.
-> There must be no criminal proceedings instituted against her.
-> The women applicant must not be a member under any of the political party.

Documents Required

The below listed are the documents/records that need to be furnished at the time of applying for the Mahila Police Volunteers (MPVs) Scheme.

-> Passport size photograph
-> KYC documents – Identity Proof: Aadhar Card, PAN Card, Driving License, Voter Identity Card, etc.
-> Address Proof: Valid Passport, Utility bill, Aadhar Card, Property tax bill, etc.
-> Educational Qualification certificates
-> Bank account details (copy of bank passbook).
-> The women applicant must not be a defaulter in the records of any bank.
-> Any other documents (if required)

The women applicants will have to address the concerned authority. The notice will be issued in the following offices:

• Local Thana
• Police Chowki
• Panchayat Office
• Municipal Office
• Publicity through Tehsildar Office
• Block Development Officer
• Anganwadi Workers (AWWs)
• Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs)
• Accredited Social Health Activist
• PS/OP/DySP/SP Offices
• DM Office.

Conclusion:

The Mahila Police Volunteers Scheme is an innovative initiative that bridges the gap between police authorities and local communities, with the aim of addressing gender concerns and assisting women in distress. By providing financial support, training, and recognition, the scheme empowers women to play an active role in their communities, ensuring their safety and well-being. The efforts made through this scheme contribute to the larger goal of gender equality and a safer society for all.