6 May, Maharashtra
The Maharashtra government has deferred its promise to raise the monthly payout of the Ladki Bahin scheme due to financial constraints.
While protesting the diversion of funds from his social welfare department to the state’s showcase Mukhya Mantri Majhi Ladki Bahin scheme, Shiv Sena minister Sanjay Shirsat conceded on Monday that the govt would not be able to raise its stipend from Rs 1,500 to Rs 2,100 due to the state’s financial situation.
The increase was promised in the Mahayuti alliance’s manifesto ahead of the assembly polls.
Putting the state’s economic condition in order is a concern for the seniors. But it is a fact that we will not be able to increase the stipend from Rs 1,500 to Rs 2,100,” he said.
Finance Minister Ajit Pawar, while tabling the budget, gave ₹36,000 crore to the scheme, down from last year’s ₹46,000 crore. He highlighted the importance of fiscal discipline, noting the state’s estimated debt of ₹7.8 lakh crore and a revenue deficit of ₹45,891 crore in the fiscal year.
It’s the first time a minister in the government has strictly stated the stipend cannot be increased. Previously, the state had stated that the stipend would be increased at a subsequent stage in the course of the Mahayuti government’s term.
“There is certainly a bit less money, and there is financial constraint on the government, but the chief minister and deputy chief ministers are doing something about it,” said Shirsat.
He asserted that the government would go ahead with the scheme even if it meant borrowing money.
“The scheme brought our government to power. It will be given sufficient funds, and the scheme will be continued according to our commitment. There are other means of raising money, even if we have to take loans, we will not close the scheme.”
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis assured the government is remains committed to raising the payout to ₹2,100 but emphasized the need for financial prudence. He said the increased will be introduced once the state’s financial condition improves .
Women and Child Development Minister Aditi Tatkare explained that the ₹2,100 payment was a promise in the manifesto and did not have a specific timeline associated with it. She added that any move to hike the amount would need cabinet approval.
The opposition, which comprises Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray, condemned the government for not keeping its poll promises. Thackeray described the budget as “bogus,” alleging that the ruling alliance had made false promises to win votes.
Since its launch in July 2024, the Ladki Bahin scheme has provided financial assistance to approximately 2.53 crore women, with expenditures totaling ₹33,232 crore. The government continues to work on verifying beneficiary eligibility to ensure that aid reaches those who meet the criteria.
While the state struggles with its financial crisis, the proposed hike in the Ladki Bahin scheme’s monthly disbursement is on hold, with beneficiaries holding out for further directions.
Read more at questiqa.in
