Maharashtra Faces Challenges in Implementing Ladki Bahin Scheme

The state government plans to scrutinize beneficiaries and address funding concerns for the welfare initiative benefiting over 2 crore women.

The Ladki Bahin scheme, launched in June 2024, provides financial aid to women from families earning below ₹2.5 lakh annually, with monthly payments recently increased to ₹2,100.
The government has announced a review of beneficiaries to ensure only eligible women receive funds, citing reports of ineligible applicants benefiting from the scheme.
The Bombay High Court has directed the state government to ensure smooth implementation of the scheme, particularly addressing challenges faced by applicants in rural areas due to reduced facilitation support.
Critics have raised concerns about the scheme’s financial sustainability, with the ₹46,000 crore annual cost straining state resources and raising questions about long-term viability.
The government has pledged to maintain the eligibility criteria while using measures like income tax data to verify applications flagged for scrutiny, ensuring fairness in distribution.