Maharashtra CM Defends Women's Welfare Scheme amid Opposition Criticism

Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde defended the Mukhya Mantri Ladki Bahin Yojana, which provides Rs 1,500 monthly to underprivileged women. He criticized opposition leaders, including former CM Uddhav Thackeray, for belittling the scheme. Nearly 1.5 crore women have already received payments under this initiative aimed at financially disadvantaged women aged 21 to 65 years.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Tuesday defended the Mukhya Mantri Ladki Bahin Yojana amid criticism from opposition figures, including former CM Uddhav Thackeray. Speaking at an event in Mumbai's Chandivali area, Shinde emphasized that those born with a 'golden spoon' will not understand the value of Rs 1,500, the monthly stipend provided to underprivileged women by the state government.

Shinde noted that approximately 2 crore women applied for the scheme, with 1.5 crore deemed eligible and receiving the promised stipend of Rs 1,500. He dismissed the opposition's claims that the scheme is deceptive, asserting that the overwhelming response from beneficiaries proves its value.

The CM criticized the opposition for spreading rumors that the funds would be retracted, insisting that the government aims to increase the stipend if it gains continued support. The scheme, intended for financially disadvantaged women aged 21 to 65 years, is projected to cost the state exchequer Rs 46,000 crore annually, a number deemed unsustainable by critics.

(With inputs from agencies.)