What this scheme offers
This scheme funds NGOs, cooperative institutions, and other eligible organisations to build, expand, or rent hostel accommodation specifically for working women, in urban, semi-urban and even rural areas with real employment opportunities. Hostels offer safe lodging with a daycare centre for children — girls up to age 18 and boys up to age 5 can stay with their working mothers, who can also use the daycare facility while at work. Women under job training (for a period not exceeding 1 year) can also be accommodated where space allows, though they cannot exceed 30% of a hostel's capacity, since the priority is working women themselves. Access is open to all women regardless of caste, religion or marital status, with particular preference for disadvantaged groups and reserved space for women with disabilities.
Who is eligible
- Working women who are single, widowed, divorced, or separated, or married women whose husband/immediate family doesn't live in the same city or area.
- Gross monthly income generally must not exceed ₹50,000 in metropolitan cities, or ₹35,000 elsewhere (limits are revised periodically — confirm current figures with the hostel).
- Women under job training, for a training period not exceeding 1 year, where hostel space is available after accommodating working women.
- Particular preference is given to women from disadvantaged backgrounds, with reserved capacity for women with disabilities.
Documents required
- Proof of employment (offer letter, salary slip, or employer certificate)
- Identity and address proof (Aadhaar)
- Income proof
- Marital status documentation, where relevant (e.g., proof of separation/divorce)
How to apply
- Search for an operational Working Women's Hostel in your city — many are run by NGOs, women's welfare organisations, or urban local bodies with WCD Ministry funding.
- Contact the hostel directly to check current vacancy and admission process, since each hostel manages its own intake.
- Submit your employment proof, income documents, and identity proof as requested by the hostel administration.
- If bringing a child, confirm daycare availability and any applicable age limits (up to 18 for girls, up to 5 for boys) at that specific hostel.
- Your state's Women & Child Development Department can help locate operational hostels if you're unable to find one directly.