New Delhi: Every day, lakhs of women step out on Delhi’s roads—some heading to factories, others to offices, and many working as daily-wage labourers. Yet, one question troubles almost every mother: who will take care of the child in her absence? Seeking to address this concern, the Delhi government has announced the launch of its ‘Palna’ scheme, offering crèche facilities for working and labour-class women.
Under the new initiative, 500 Palna crèches will be opened across Delhi, dedicated to women who need a safe place for their children while they work. The announcement comes as part of the government’s plan to dedicate this scheme on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s birthday, positioning it as a step toward women empowerment and children’s safety.
According to officials, these crèches will be strategically located in labour colonies and low-income neighbourhoods, where child-care options are either inadequate or non-existent. Currently, many women are forced to leave children at home alone or take them to unsafe workplaces. Authorities argue that with the Palna scheme, mothers will gain both security and dignity, while children will benefit from a structured and nurturing environment.
The Delhi government has also emphasised that previous administrations neglected the needs of poor and working-class families, but this scheme will bridge that gap. The Palna centres, they claim, will be accessible and transparent, ensuring that lakhs of women can work without fear and children can learn and play in safe spaces.
While the announcement has generated positive responses, the real test will be how quickly and effectively the 500 crèches are established. Questions remain: will this scheme be remembered as a political showcase or as a transformative step for women and families in Delhi?
