Women’s Empowerment through Co-ownership in the Property Cards created under SVAMITVA Scheme

SUSHIL KUMAR LOHANI Additional Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj

The distribution of around 65 lakh SVAMITVA Property Cards on 18^th January, 2025 marks a historic milestone in India's journey towards rural empowerment and economic transformation. This initiative underscores the Government's commitment to strengthening property rights and fostering inclusive rural development. It is a significant step towards empowering citizens, especially women and vulnerable sections of the society, while advancing the vision of a prosperous and developed India or Viksit Bharat.

Historically, rural women in India have been central to agriculture, household management and community life. Despite their significant contributions, systemic barriers have denied them legal recognition of the land they cultivate and maintain. This inequity has restricted women’s access to financial resources, opportunities and independence, perpetuating economic and gender disparities.

The SVAMITVA Scheme is reshaping this narrative by officially recognizing women as co-owners of land. This transformative initiative grants women equal shares in family property, empowering them both financially and socially. It is a vital step in advancing gender equality and fostering financial independence for women in rural areas.In rural India, land ownership extends beyond financial value—it represents social status and security. Without property rights, women often face financial instability, displacement, and domestic violence. By granting legal land rights, the SVAMITVA Scheme provides women with security and decision-making power regarding land use, access, and resources.

One of the scheme’s most impactful outcomes is the financial independence it offers women. Land ownership enables access to financial services like loans, credit, and insurance, which were previously inaccessible without formal land titles. This access allows women to invest in their families’ futures and establish financial stability.With the inclusion of women as co-owners in the property titles, rural women now have the ability to use their land as collateral for loans. For example, in Pune district, Maharashtra, local authorities actively encouraged women to become co-owners of properties. As a result, the percentage of residential properties jointly or solely owned by women rose dramatically from 16% to 88%. This shift has empowered women to access loans, start businesses and achieve financial independence while reducing property disputes and enhancing economic stability.Similarly, in Madhya Pradesh, the inclusion of women as co-owners under the state’s Land Revenue Code has had transformative effects. Women like Smt. Shaliya Siddiqui from Harda have shared how receiving property cards through the SVAMITVA Scheme secured their land and provided legal backing to protect their rights. This empowerment has enabled access to loans, agricultural support, and other financial resources, significantly improving their quality of life.

Beyond financial and legal empowerment, the scheme represents a critical social milestone. For many women, property ownership fosters a sense of security, recognition, and belonging within their families and communities. It challenges cultural norms that have historically excluded women from property-related decisions, enabling them to take active roles in household and community governance.By securing land rights, the SVAMITVA Scheme addresses deep-rooted gender biases and empowers women to participate in decision-making processes. Legal recognition strengthens their standing within families and society, offering greater control over household resources and reducing the risk of displacement or rights