Maharashtra’s Ladki Bahin Scheme Secure, Says Deputy CM

Ajit Pawar, Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister, has reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to the Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana, a flagship program providing monthly financial aid to women, stating there are no plans to discontinue it.

The scheme, credited with bolstering the Mahayuti coalition’s (BJP, Shiv Sena, and Ajit Pawar’s NCP) success in last year’s state elections, delivers Rs 1,500 monthly to eligible women. Speaking to reporters late Tuesday, Pawar emphasized that the budget for the program is secured, dismissing any speculation about its termination.

On the same day, Women and Child Development Minister Aditi Tatkare addressed concerns raised by media reports suggesting a reduction in aid for some beneficiaries. She clarified that 7.74 lakh women, who receive Rs 1,000 monthly under other schemes like the Namo Shetkari Samman Yojana, are provided an additional Rs 500 under the Ladki Bahin Yojana to meet the Rs 1,500 threshold. Women not enrolled in other government programs receive the full Rs 1,500.

Tatkare, in a post on X, reiterated that no eligible woman has been excluded from the scheme, and no changes to its framework have been made since July 3, 2024. She noted that this clarification was also provided during the state legislature’s budget session.

The minister accused the opposition of spreading misinformation about the scheme, suggesting their criticism stems from either a lack of administrative understanding or frustration over the program’s success.