The department of Women and Child Development, Government of India, came into existence as a separate Ministry with effect from 30th January, 2006, earlier since 1985, it was a department under the Ministry of Human Resources Development.
The Ministry was constituted with the prime intention of addressing gaps in the state action for women and children for promoting Inter -Ministerial and Inter-Sectoral convergence, to create gender equitable and child-centred legislation, policies and programmes.
Women and Child Development Department was formed as a separate Administrative department by the Government of Maharashtra in June 1993.
Maharashtra is the second most populous state, with around 11.2 Crores citizens residing in the state.
Empowered women living with dignity and contributing as equal partners in development in an environment free from violence and discrimination. And, well nurtured children with full opportunities for growth and development in a safe and protective environment.
The main objectives of the department are to focus on promoting the survival, protection, development, welfare and participation of women and children in a holistic manner.
The department is responsible for policy making, formulation of programmes /schemes, implementation of development programmes, and co-ordination of efforts of both governmental and non-governmental organizations working in the field of Women and Child Development.