Maharashtra Reduces Stipend for Ladki Bahin Yojana Beneficiaries
The Maharashtra government has slashed the monthly stipend for 8 lakh women enrolled under its Mukhya Mantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana, citing that these beneficiaries are also receiving payments under the Namo Shetkari Mahasanman Nidhi (NSMN) scheme.
Stipend Adjusted to ₹500 for Dual Scheme Beneficiaries
Instead of the standard ₹1,500, these women will now receive ₹500 monthly under the Ladki Bahin Yojana, as they already get ₹1,000 through the NSMN. As per the scheme’s rules, the total benefit from government schemes must not exceed ₹1,500 per month.
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Scrutiny Process Cuts Beneficiaries
The government has intensified its scrutiny to ensure only eligible women receive the financial aid. From the original 2.63 crore applications in October, the number of beneficiaries was reduced by 11 lakh by February, and only 2.46 crore women received the stipend in February and March.
An official stated that the review process involves district-level verification followed by re-scrutiny at the state headquarters. According to CM Devendra Fadnavis, this exercise is not about reducing funding but ensuring benefits reach the rightful recipients. He expects the final list to shrink by 10-15 lakh beneficiaries.
Eligibility Criteria for Ladki Bahin Yojana
To qualify for the Ladki Bahin Yojana, applicants must meet the following five key criteria:
- Women aged between 18-65 years
- Must be domiciled in Maharashtra
- Annual family income should not exceed ₹2.5 lakh
- No ownership of a four-wheeler
- No family member should be employed in a government job
Additionally, women already receiving other government benefits are eligible only if the total aid stays within ₹1,500/month.
Budget Pressure Leads to Scheme Cuts
With Maharashtra’s projected debt touching ₹9.3 lakh crore for 2025-26, the state is under financial pressure. As a result, the budget allocation for the Yojana has been reduced from ₹46,000 crore to ₹36,000 crore in the upcoming fiscal year.