Scheme Resumes
The Ladki Bahin Yojana (Ladki Bahin Scheme) has resumed in Maharashtra following a halt during the Assembly elections due to the model code of conduct. Beneficiaries are now expected to receive their December 2024 payouts.
The scheme was a major factor in Mahayuti alliance's landslide victory in the November 2024 state elections.
Scheme Details
Overview of the Ladki Bahin Yojana:
Benefits
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Amount | ₹1,500 per month |
| Target | Eligible women |
| Beneficiaries | 2.5+ crore women |
| Annual cost | ₹46,000+ crore |
| Implementation | State government |
Eligibility
- Women aged 21-60 years
- Annual family income below ₹2.5 lakh
- Maharashtra domicile
- Not receiving similar benefits
Election Impact
The scheme influenced election outcomes:
Political Significance
| Factor | Impact |
|---|---|
| Women voters | Favored Mahayuti |
| Rural areas | Strong support |
| Urban poor | Beneficiary votes |
| Opposition | Promised enhancement |
Victory Margin
The Mahayuti won over 230 seats, with Ladki Bahin cited as a major factor.
December Payout
The resumption brings relief to beneficiaries:
Timeline
- Scheme halted during model code
- Elections concluded November 23
- New government sworn in December 5
- Resumption announced December 20
- Payouts expected by month-end
Process
- Automatic bank transfers
- No additional applications needed
- Arrears included if applicable
- Helpline for issues
Budget Allocation
Financial provisions for the scheme:
Funding
| Year | Allocation |
|---|---|
| 2024-25 | ₹46,000 crore |
| Future | Expected increase |
| Source | State budget |
| Priority | High |
Political Reactions
Response to resumption:
Government
"We are committed to empowering women. Ladki Bahin will continue and improve." — CM Devendra Fadnavis
Opposition
MVA has promised to increase the amount if elected in future.
Similar Schemes Nationwide
The success has inspired similar programs:
State Comparison
| State | Scheme | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Madhya Pradesh | Ladli Behna | ₹1,250 |
| Maharashtra | Ladki Bahin | ₹1,500 |
| Jharkhand | Maiya Samman | ₹1,000 |
| Odisha | Subhadra | ₹10,000/year |
Women's Welfare Focus
The scheme reflects broader trends:
Policy Direction
- Direct benefit transfers
- Women-centric welfare
- Electoral significance
- Economic empowerment
- Political mobilization
Implementation Challenges
Issues reported during rollout:
Challenges
| Issue | Status |
|---|---|
| Verification delays | Being resolved |
| Ineligible inclusions | Audited |
| Bank account issues | Technical support |
| Application backlogs | Processing ongoing |
Looking Ahead
The scheme's future:
Planned Improvements
- Amount increase proposed
- Coverage expansion
- Verification streamlining
- Integration with other schemes
- Digital platform enhancement
The resumption of Ladki Bahin Yojana marks the new government's first major welfare action, setting the tone for continued focus on women's empowerment.
