Pune: PMC Budget 2026 Emphasises Women’s Empowerment With 50 Percent Property Tax Rebate, ‘Pink Rooms’ And Self-Defence Initiatives
Pune: PMC Budget 2026 Emphasises Women’s Empowerment With 50 Percent Property Tax Rebate, ‘Pink Rooms’ And Self-Defence Initiatives
Pune, March 24, 2026: The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has placed a strong focus on women’s empowerment in its 2026–27 budget, announcing a range of initiatives aimed at improving financial independence, safety and overall well-being.
Presenting the budget, Standing Committee Chairman Shrinath Bhimale highlighted the theme of “Empowered Women, Strong Society,” with measures addressing economic, social and security-related needs of women across the city.
One of the key proposals includes a 50% property tax rebate for homes up to 500 sq ft registered in the name of women, valid until March 31, 2026. The move is expected to encourage property ownership among women.
To promote entrepreneurship, the civic body plans to set up a dedicated convention centre for women, where entrepreneurs, self-help groups and professionals can access training, workshops, exhibitions and networking opportunities.
In a bid to support adolescent girls, PMC will introduce “Pink Rooms” in 75 municipal schools. These spaces will provide digital counselling and guidance to address health and mental well-being.
The budget also prioritises safety and hygiene, with plans to construct 100 modern public toilets for women at key locations across the city. Additionally, the Rani Laxmibai Women Empowerment Scheme will be revamped to offer family counselling, legal assistance and support services.
To boost confidence and personal safety, self-defence training centres will be established, offering lessons in disciplines such as judo, karate, lathi-kathi and yoga.
The civic body also aims to strengthen women’s economic participation through self-help groups by providing skill development, entrepreneurship training, employment opportunities and access to stable markets.
Other initiatives include educational support for girl students, financial aid for competitive exams, healthcare assistance, and implementation of welfare schemes such as adoption support, self-reliance programmes and pension schemes.
Officials said these measures are expected to enhance women’s access to education, income opportunities, safety and healthcare, thereby reinforcing the vision of a more inclusive and empowered urban society.
