26 Lakh Ineligible Women Removed From Maharashtra's Ladki Bahin Scheme

This special report by Omkar Wable examines the recent review of Maharashtra’s Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana, a flagship cash transfer scheme for women. While the initiative played a decisive role in the Mahayuti alliance's electoral success, a recent audit has led to the removal of over 26 lakh beneficiaries deemed ineligible. The report highlights significant administrative lapses, including 'more than 12,000 men receiving funds by mistake' and over 2,200 government employees being erroneously enrolled. Beyond eligibility issues, the scheme has placed a massive burden on the state exchequer, with nearly 90,000 crore rupees owed to contractors in the Public Works Department and other sectors. Despite these challenges and the suspension of MLA funds for six months, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has assured that the welfare programme will continue. The segment explores the balance between populist welfare measures and fiscal responsibility as the state prepares for upcoming municipal corporation elections.