Document Portal -- Government of Kerala

Amendment Issued for the Aswasanidhi Scheme of the Women and Child Development Department

The Women and Child Development Department has issued an amendment order to revise the Aswasanidhi Scheme, which provides financial relief to women and children affected by sexual assault, acid attacks, heinous crimes, and gender-based violence. These amendments have been introduced in response to the implementation of the new criminal law system.

The Aswasanidhi Scheme, launched in 2018, offers emergency financial assistance to survivors of sexual violence, domestic abuse, and other forms of assault. Many survivors suffer serious physical and psychological injuries, requiring immediate and long-term treatment. The Women and Child Development Department provides financial aid based on investigation reports submitted by Women Protection Officers, Child Protection Officers, and other relevant authorities.

This scheme is designed for victims who face neglect from their families and society. A significant number of beneficiaries are survivors of POCSO cases. The scheme provides financial assistance ranging from ₹25,000 to ₹2 lakh, depending on the severity of the violence.

Survivors must submit their application to the District Child/Women Protection Officer within six months of filing a police complaint. The application must be accompanied by a medical report, legal report, and police report.

After verification, the application is forwarded to the State Nirbhaya Cell. Once approved, the financial assistance is deposited into the survivor’s bank account within a week. For minor survivors, the amount is deposited in a joint account with a guardian.

The district-level screening committee and state-level committee carefully review applications before recommending financial aid. The Aswasanidhi scheme, which is not available in other states, is funded from the government's own funds.

https://document.kerala.gov.in/documents/governmentorders/govtorder0901202509:19:59.pdf

01-03-2025