Satyajit Kumar Reports On Jharkhand's Maiya Samman Yojana And Its Impact On Women

On this Special Report, India Today’s Satyajit Kumar examines the impact of the Maiya Samman Yojana in Jharkhand. Launched by the Hemant Soren government in August 2024, the scheme initially provided ₹1,000 per month to women aged 18 to 50, which was later increased to ₹2,500 from January 2025. Satyajit Kumar notes that the scheme proved to be a 'game-changer for Hemant Soren Government, as it made a solid comeback in polls.' While over 55 lakh women currently benefit from the enhanced amount, the report highlights significant challenges. Many eligible women remain excluded due to the closure of the application portal, while cases of misuse by affluent individuals are being scanned for removal. Furthermore, the opposition BJP has criticised the scheme, alleging that the financial burden has delayed other essential welfare programmes, including pensions for widows and the elderly. Despite these hurdles, for many women in villages like Chhatra, the monthly stipend remains a vital lifeline for purchasing school supplies and household necessities.