Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Monday reaffirmed that Maharashtra’s flagship Ladki Bahin Scheme will continue indefinitely, dismissing speculation about its discontinuation.
Speaking at a public gathering, Shinde assured beneficiaries that the scheme — launched to empower women through financial assistance and social inclusion — would “never be shut down.” He credited the program’s success and its wide public support as key factors behind the Mahayuti alliance’s victory in the state elections last year.
“The Ladki Bahin Scheme will never close. It belongs to every sister of Maharashtra who stood by us and trusted this government. Their blessings brought Mahayuti back to power,” Shinde said while addressing the event.
What Is The Ladki Bahin Scheme?
The Ladki Bahin Scheme is a women-centric welfare initiative launched by the Maharashtra government under the Mahayuti coalition comprising the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Shiv Sena, and Ajit Pawar’s Nationalist Congress Party (NCP).
The program provides monthly financial support to eligible women across the state, primarily targeting those from economically weaker backgrounds. It aims to enhance financial independence, promote education, and encourage small-scale entrepreneurship among women.
Since its inception, the scheme has received a strong response, with lakhs of women beneficiaries registering under the program.
Eknath Shinde’s Remarks and Political Context
Eknath Shinde, while reiterating the government’s commitment, emphasized that women’s welfare remains a core priority for the Mahayuti administration.
He stated that the scheme’s continuity was a “promise of trust” and an expression of gratitude toward the women of Maharashtra, who, according to him, “voted overwhelmingly” for the alliance in the last state polls.
The Deputy CM also hinted at possible expansions of the Ladki Bahin initiative, including digital payment integration, simplified registration, and enhanced outreach in rural districts.
His remarks come amid reports and opposition claims suggesting that the government might scale down the scheme due to budgetary constraints. However, Shinde’s strong statement appears intended to reassure beneficiaries and silence political speculation.
Impact Of The Scheme So Far
According to official figures, the Ladki Bahin Scheme has benefited millions of women since its rollout. Government data indicates:
Over 50 lakh women have received direct cash transfers under the program.
Rural participation has increased by nearly 30% since 2024.
The scheme has also improved female literacy rates and micro-business participation among women.
Economists have noted that such welfare measures not only support women but also have a multiplier effect on families, improving household stability and consumption in rural areas.
Political Significance
The Ladki Bahin Scheme is seen as one of the Mahayuti government’s most popular initiatives, especially in semi-urban and rural Maharashtra. Political observers suggest that Shinde’s reaffirmation comes ahead of upcoming local body elections, where the ruling alliance aims to consolidate its base among women voters.
The opposition, however, has called for greater transparency in beneficiary verification and fund allocation, arguing that political motivations should not influence welfare programs.
Still, Shinde’s statement reinforces the government’s stance that social welfare, especially for women, remains central to its governance model.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the Ladki Bahin Scheme?
It is a Maharashtra government program that provides monthly financial assistance to eligible women to promote economic independence and empowerment.
Q2: Who started the Ladki Bahin Scheme?
The scheme was introduced by the Mahayuti government, led by the alliance of BJP, Shiv Sena, and Ajit Pawar’s NCP.
Q3: What did Eknath Shinde say about the scheme?
He declared that the scheme will never be shut down and will continue indefinitely.
Q4: Why is the scheme politically significant?
Because it has a large base of women beneficiaries who played a key role in the ruling coalition’s electoral success.
Q5: Are there plans to expand the scheme?
Yes, the government is exploring digital payment systems and rural expansion to reach more beneficiaries.
Published on : 10th November
Published by : SMITA
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Source Credit : Reported by Press Trust of India (PTI) — India Politics Desk