Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde was presented with the Commonwealth Public Leadership Award at the British Parliament during his three-day official visit to London from September 9 to 11. He described the recognition as a celebration of Marathi culture and credited it to the work of the Mahayuti government in the state.
Speaking after the honour, Shinde said the award reflected the blessings of the people of Maharashtra. He specifically highlighted two state schemes that he said had benefited millions: the Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana and Shasan Aaplya Dari.
The Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana, run by the Women and Child Development Department, provides economic support to women aged 21 to 65. Eligible beneficiaries receive ₹1,500 per month through direct benefit transfer, with the aim of enhancing financial independence, health, nutrition and decision-making roles within families.
Shasan Aaplya Dari, launched in May 2023, is designed to bring government services closer to citizens. It allows people to access benefits, documents and welfare schemes under one roof, reducing the need to visit multiple offices.
Shinde noted that upon arriving in London he was welcomed by members of the local Marathi community, many of whom appeared in traditional attire and accompanied the reception with dhol-tasha. He said the enthusiastic response, including slogans of Jai Bhavani, Jai Shivaji and Jai Maharashtra, turned the visit into a cultural celebration from the outset.
During the day he met students, entrepreneurs and industrialists, observing efforts to promote Maharashtra’s culture abroad. He also had the opportunity to speak in Marathi at the British Parliament. Shinde expressed happiness that the UK recognition of the state government’s initiatives, particularly the two schemes, had led to the award.
The visit underscored ongoing connections between the Maharashtra diaspora and the state, with community members in London actively maintaining cultural ties while supporting the Deputy Chief Minister’s engagements.
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