Rewritten Title: New “Mother’s Hope Card” Initiative Announced to Support Families and National Growth
Article:
In a significant move to address demographic challenges and support families, the Iranian government has unveiled the “Mother’s Hope Card” program, a new financial support system for mothers. The initiative was detailed by Dr. Marzieh Vahid-Dastjerdi, Secretary of the National Population Headquarters, during a press conference held at the Presidential office.
A Strategic Response to Demographic Trends
Dr. Vahid-Dastjerdi opened the conference by outlining the long-term demographic concerns that prompted the new policy. She reported that for a quarter of a century, the country’s fertility rate has been below the replacement level of 2.1 children per family, a trend that leads to a declining population. This report was presented to the Supreme Council of the Cultural Revolution and received significant attention, leading to a directive for a comprehensive action plan.
The Secretary emphasized that supporting population growth is a multi-faceted issue requiring social and economic solutions. “One cannot consider a single path for childbearing; rather, various paths must be considered,” she stated.
Details of the Mother’s Hope Card
The centerpiece of the government’s new strategy is the Mother’s Hope Card, described as a targeted and timed financial support mechanism for both mother and child.
- Universal Eligibility: In a move focused on equity, the card will be provided to all mothers without means-testing or restrictions based on place of residence.
- Financial Support: The card will be credited with 2 million Tomans per month, starting from the child’s birth and continuing until the age of two.
- Implementation Timeline: The program is slated to begin in the next Iranian calendar year (starting March 21, 2025). All mothers who give birth from the first day of the year 1405 will be eligible.
A Focus on Motherhood and Early Childhood Development
Dr. Vahid-Dastjerdi highlighted the program’s human-centric and forward-looking approach, which recognizes the high status of mothers and the strategic importance of early childhood.
“We are placing this card in the hands of the mother because she carries the child for nine months, and the majority of care is her responsibility,” she explained. The initiative is also grounded in scientific research, acknowledging that the first two years of life are critical for a child’s physical, cognitive, and social development.
“The message of this card is that the 13th government wants to say that we are alongside mothers and their children,” the Secretary affirmed.
Clarification on Health Screening Policies
In response to questions, Dr. Vahid-Dastjerdi also clarified that prenatal screening for mothers has not been banned. She stated that screening is currently conducted in two stages—at 12 weeks and 40 weeks of pregnancy—and that there are no current restrictions on the procedure. The existing legal framework allows for therapeutic abortion in specific fetal health cases following a rigorous review by a specialized legal medical commission.
The announcement of the Mother’s Hope Card signals a comprehensive national effort to create a supportive environment for families, aligning demographic goals with tangible economic support.