Maharashtra Ladli Bahin Yojana: Only Poor Women to Get Benefits, Says Ajit Pawar

Maharashtra Ladli Bahin Yojana: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has announced that the Maharashtra Ladli Bahin Yojana will undergo modifications to ensure that only economically weaker women receive benefits. He clarified that the scheme will not be discontinued, but necessary corrections will be made to exclude women with strong financial backgrounds.

Why Is the Scheme Being Changed?

The Maharashtra Ladli Bahin Yojana, aimed at providing financial aid to women, recently faced political controversy after allegations that the government planned to discontinue it. However, Ajit Pawar, who also manages the Finance Department, dismissed these claims.

Key Reasons for Changes in the Scheme

Some well-off women were mistakenly included during the initial phase.
The scheme was meant only for poor women but lacked strict criteria at launch.
The government won’t take back funds already distributed but will refine the eligibility process.

Ajit Pawar emphasized that even PM Narendra Modi has urged people who do not meet eligibility criteria to opt out of government schemes, ensuring that welfare programs reach the right beneficiaries.

Government’s Financial Strategy for the Scheme

SC/ST Fund Allocation – Pawar confirmed that a portion of the 40% budget increase for SC/ST communities will be used for the Maharashtra Ladli Bahin Yojana.
Loan Assistance for Women – The scheme will be linked to a loan program, where ₹45 crore has been allocated for financial aid to beneficiaries.
Mumbai Bank’s Special Loan Offer – Under the leadership of BJP MLC Praveen Darekar, the Mumbai Bank has announced that women opening accounts under the scheme will get loans between ₹10,000 to ₹25,000.

Maharashtra’s Fiscal Health & Revenue Deficit

Ajit Pawar addressed concerns regarding the state's ₹9.3 lakh crore debt and ₹45,892 crore revenue deficit, defending the government's fiscal management. He cited RBI data, stating that Maharashtra maintains strong fiscal indicators, along with Odisha and Gujarat, staying within financial limits.

Final Thoughts

The Maharashtra Ladli Bahin Yojana will continue, but only poor women will be eligible for benefits after the revised criteria. The Maharashtra government aims to optimize its financial resources while ensuring that welfare programs effectively support the needy.

Also Raed: Sunita Williams Health After Space: Challenges She May Face on Earth