Maharashtra's 'Ladki Bahin Yojana' Nears Launch with Initial Funds Transferred

The Maharashtra government's 'Ladki Bahin Yojana' is set to launch soon, with Rs 3,000 already transferred to select beneficiaries' accounts on a trial basis. The scheme will provide Rs 1,500 monthly to underprivileged women, costing the state Rs 46,000 crore yearly. Opponents criticize it as a pre-poll gimmick.

As Maharashtra gears up for the official launch of the 'Ladki Bahin Yojana,' the Women and Child Development Department has announced a successful trial transfer of Rs 3,000 to select bank accounts of beneficiaries for two months.

Under the 'Mukhya Mantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana,' underprivileged women aged 21 to 65 will receive Rs 1,500 per month, a promise made in the state's June budget. The scheme, costing Rs 46,000 crore per year, is set to begin just months ahead of the assembly polls due in October.

Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said, "We have lived up to our words," urging women to ignore critics who label the scheme as a poll tactic. Despite opposition attempts to halt the scheme, including a failed petition to the Bombay High Court, the initiative is moving forward with an expected two crore beneficiaries.

(With inputs from agencies.)