Mahayuti Government Ladki Bahin Scheme Struggles to Meet Promises

The Majhi Ladki Bahin Scheme was a game-changer for the Mahayuti Government during the recent elections. The scheme offered cash assistance to women below the poverty line, which gained significant traction among voters. However, a month after the government’s return to power, cracks are emerging in its implementation and financial feasibility.

What Is the Ladki Bahin Scheme?

The Ladki Bahin Scheme is a monthly financial assistance scheme provided to women from economically weaker sections. The initial amount was ₹1,500 per month, with a promise of increasing the amount to ₹2,100. This scheme would reduce the financial burden on women and encourage their economic empowerment.

With 2.5 crore registered beneficiaries, the annual cost of the scheme is estimated at ₹46,000 crore. If the allocation is raised as promised, this figure would climb to ₹63,000 crore. The financial burden has been the main challenge that the Mahayuti government faces regarding the laudable objectives of the program.

Mahayuti Government: Delayed Raise in Allocation

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis recently revealed that the commitment to increase the monthly disbursals to ₹2,100 would depend on some conditions. “We will take the increase in the Budget but only if the state’s finances are managed appropriately,” he said.

Sources close to the Women and Child Welfare Department, however, believe the increment will not materialize this fiscal. The authorities have indicated that if it does, it might only be the next fiscal.

Mahayuti Government: Accusations and Scam Allegations

The government faces criticism for duplicate beneficiary and income rule violation issues. The authority has cross-verified the list of beneficiaries so far. The grievances raised so far are:

Duplicate registrations of beneficiaries
Violation of income and automobile holding rules.
Migrants continue to draw benefits even after leaving Maharashtra

While the opposition parties allege that the government is reducing the list of beneficiaries just to save on costs, Women and Child Welfare Minister Aditi Tatkare clarified that scrutiny will be only in cases with specific complaints or rule violations.

Mahayuti Government’s: Impact on Other Schemes

This has led to a postponement of other major promises like a farm loan waiver and the Shetkari Sanman Scheme. Agriculture Minister Manikrao Kokate accepted that these would have to wait as Ladki Bahin has already put an expenditure on it. This has caused unrest among farmers, who are now compelled to either receive aid under the Shetkari Sanman Yojana or the Ladki Bahin Scheme.

Mahayuti Government: Opposition Criticism

Opposition leaders, including NCP-SP MLA Rohit Pawar, have been critical of the government’s policies. Pawar asked why women farmers were excluded from the benefits under both schemes, as he said the two schemes are meant for different purposes.

Accusations of cost-cutting in the form of pruning the beneficiary list of Ladki Bahin have furthered the criticism against the government, as the opposition feels that these steps are a retreat from the election campaign promises.

Mahayuti Government Response

The Mahayuti government has, in the face of mounting challenges, defended its actions. According to Minister Tatkare, no blanket scrutiny of beneficiaries will take place, and complaints will be dealt with on a case-to-case basis. She also highlighted that most of the beneficiaries are below the poverty line and require minimal verification.

While the government has promised to fulfill its election promises, whether it can deliver on its various competing priorities is still in question.

Looking Ahead: Can the Mahayuti Government Deliver?

The Ladki Bahin Scheme was a cornerstone of the Mahayuti government’s electoral success. However, its financial sustainability and implementation have become significant hurdles. As the government navigates these challenges, it must ensure transparency, equitable implementation, and the fulfillment of promises to maintain public trust.

FAQs

1. What is the Mahayuti Government’s Ladki Bahin Scheme?

The Ladki Bahin Scheme is a financial assistance scheme for women living below the poverty line, providing them with monthly payments to help overcome economic difficulties.

2. Why has the promised raise to ₹2,100 been delayed?

The raise has been delayed because of financial constraints. The government is reviewing its budget and may only consider the increase in the next fiscal year.

3. Who is eligible for the Ladki Bahin Scheme?

Women with yellow or saffron ration cards or those classified as below the poverty line are eligible for the scheme.

4. What are the main challenges in implementing the scheme?

The key challenges include financial strain, allegations of duplicity in beneficiary lists, and delays in fulfilling other pre-election promises like the farm loan waiver.