Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) is an initiative by the Government of India launched on January 1, 2013, aimed at reforming the government delivery system for welfare schemes. The mission focuses on simplifying and accelerating the flow of information and funds to ensure accurate targeting of beneficiaries while minimizing fraud. Initially implemented in 43 districts, DBT has expanded significantly, covering multiple schemes related to scholarships, women, and child welfare, as well as employment guarantees like the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA).

The DBT framework is designed to facilitate electronic payments across all Central and Centrally Sponsored Schemes, enhancing efficiency, transparency, and accountability in governance. By promoting the use of Aadhaar for identity verification, the program aims to connect benefits directly to individuals, leveraging the synergy of Jan Dhan accounts, Aadhaar, and mobile connections. With over 22 crore Jan Dhan accounts and 100 crore Aadhaar registrations, DBT enhances the confidence of citizens in governance, embodying the principle of Maximum Governance, Minimum Government..