Maharashtra Govt’s Women Empowerment Initiative Records 14 Lakh Increase in Beneficiaries
By: Arvind Jadhav
Mumbai: Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana has seen a significant surge in beneficiaries, with 14 lakh more women added since the Maharashtra Assembly elections. Women and Child Development Minister Aditi Tatkare shared this update with the Legislative Assembly on Wednesday.
According to officials, the increase in beneficiaries is attributed to the completion of pending application scrutiny, which was delayed due to the model code of conduct during the elections. As a result, the total number of beneficiaries has risen from 2.33 crore before the elections to 2.47 crore in February.
However, the Opposition protested and walked out of the Assembly, accusing the government of delaying the promised increase in financial aid under the scheme. Opposition leaders criticized the government for failing to raise the assistance amount to Rs 2,100, as pledged.
During the question hour, NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar questioned the delay, asking when the government would provide the promised Rs 2,100. Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA Varun Sardesai also pressed for clarity on the issue.
In response, the government stated that the current amount provided under the scheme is Rs 1,500 per month, and a decision regarding the increase to Rs 2,100 will be taken by the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Ministers. Anganwadi workers receive Rs 50 per application they process under the scheme.
Despite the explanation, the Opposition continued its protest, alleging that the government was misleading women and failing to deliver on its promises. Officials clarified that the recent increase in beneficiaries is due to the clearance of applications that had been on hold due to election-related restrictions.
