ASSESSMENT OF THE AWARENESS LEVEL ABOUT GOVERNMENT FINANCIAL SCHEMES AMONG WOMEN BENEFICIARIES IN GOA

Women are an integral part of every economy. A nation's growth also depends on the overall growth and development of women. The Government of India together with the State Governments is trying to empower the women through various schemes so that they become economically independent. These schemes have played very important role in reducing the vulnerability of poor women, through asset creation, income generation and provision of emergency assistance. However, the success of these schemes is determined by their reach. If the needy women are not aware of the schemes, then it would limit the number of beneficiaries of such schemes and the very purpose of such schemes would not be achieved. The schemes selected for the study were Griha Aadhar Scheme, Mamta Scheme, Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana and Ladli Laxmi Scheme. The main objective of the study is to know the impact of demographic variables on the awareness level of schemes among women beneficiaries and to know the socio-economic impact of the schemes. Snowball method of sampling was used to select a sample of 220 women beneficiaries for the study. The data was analysed using statistical tools like mean, standard deviation, independent t-test, paired t-test, Chi-square and ANOVA. It was concluded that moderate level of empowerment was found among women beneficiaries. It was also seen that there was significant relationship between education level, place of residence and the level of awareness among beneficiaries.