The Maharashtra government is currently reviewing the beneficiaries of the Ladki Bahin scheme, a program that provides financial assistance to women from economically weaker sections.
Here's a simple explanation:
What is the Ladki Bahin scheme? It's a government program in Maharashtra that provides monthly financial support to eligible women from low-income families.
When was it launched? June 2024.
How much support was initially provided? ₹1,500 per month, with a promise to increase it to ₹2,100 if the ruling party was re-elected.
What is happening now? The government is reviewing who is receiving the money to make sure only eligible women are benefiting.
Why is the government doing this?
Financial Concerns: The scheme is estimated to cost ₹46,000 crore annually, and the finance department is worried about its long-term affordability.
Ensuring Eligibility: They want to make sure the money is going to the women who truly need it, those with a family income below ₹2.5 lakh per year.
What are the eligibility criteria?
Annual family income below ₹2.5 lakh.
No family ownership of four-wheelers.
No change of residence post-marriage.
Consistent names between Aadhaar cards and bank accounts.
How is the government checking eligibility? They plan to work with the income tax department to verify incomes.
Who is Aditi Tatkare? She is the Women and Child Development Minister.
What was the political context of the scheme? The scheme was launched before state elections and played a role in the ruling coalition's success.
What are the potential consequences of this review?
Financial Impact: Reducing the number of beneficiaries will save the government money.
Political Impact: Removing people from the program could upset some voters.
What are the future considerations for the scheme? The government is trying to balance its financial responsibilities with its commitment to social welfare.
In simple terms: The Maharashtra government started a program to give money to low-income women. Now, they are checking who is receiving the money to make sure only those who truly qualify are getting it. This is because the program is very expensive, and the government wants to make sure it's being used responsibly. They are checking things like income and whether the women meet certain criteria. This review could save the government money but might also upset some people who were relying on the financial assistance.