Scheme for Adolescent Girls 2026: The Scheme for Adolescent Girls was launched by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India, on January 1, 2017, with the aim of supporting adolescent girls with education, health & nutrition in the age group of 11-14 years. It is a centrally sponsored government programme. The SAG Scheme consists of two key components: nutrition and non-nutrition.
In this article, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of the scheme, including its objectives, key features, benefits, eligibility requirements, services offered, and its overall significance in improving the well-being and development of adolescent girls.
Scheme for Adolescent Girls
| Name of the Scheme | Scheme for Adolescent Girls |
| Implemented by | Government of India |
| Date of Launch | January 1, 2017 |
| Name of Ministry | Ministry of Women and Child Development |
| Beneficiaries | Adolescent girl between the age group of 11-14 years. |
| Objective | To support the adolescent girls with education, health & nutrition |
| Official site | www.india.gov.in |
Objective of the Scheme for Adolescent Girls
The SAG, or Scheme for Adolescent Girls, provides them with essential support, knowledge, and opportunities to lead healthy, confident, and meaningful lives. The key objectives are listed in the following:
- The scheme focuses on improving their nutritional status, enhancing life skills, and creating awareness about health.
- It also helps them make informed decisions about their future.
- SAG works to build a stronger foundation for adolescents, ensuring their overall well-being and development.
- Helping out-of-school girls return to and continue their education.
- This scheme raises awareness about reproductive and sexual health, provides counselling for adolescent girls, and teaches them essential childcare practices.
Eligibility criteria: Scheme for Adolescent Girls
- The programme covers adolescent girls between the ages of 11 and 14 years under all ICDS Projects.
- Preferences will be given to the candidates who are not attending the school regularly.
- The target group is divided into two groups: 11-15 and 15-18 years.
- Girls belonging to an economically and socially disadvantaged background.
- Applicants must be registered under the Local Anganwadi Centre.
- This programme is implemented in 200 selected districts across all states and union territories.
- Candidates should be living in 200 SAG-implemented districts.
Benefits of the Scheme for Adolescent Girls
- Fulfilling the nutritional requirements, especially iron and folic acid needs, of adolescent girls.
- Supporting girls to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health.
- Empowering young girls by teaching them hygiene practices, livelihood skills, and family welfare knowledge.
- SAG works to build a stronger foundation for adolescents, ensuring their overall well-being and development.
- Helping out-of-school girls return to and continue their education.
Services Provided under SAG
The SAG, or Scheme for Adolescent Girls, provides various services to beneficiaries. Check the following section to know the services:
- NHE – Nutrition and Health Education.
- IFA – Iron and Folic Acid Supplementation.
- Nutritional Assistance.
- Life skill development and home management support.
- Supporting out-of-school girls to rejoin school with bridge courses and skill training.
- Regular health checkups and referral services for needed medical care.