Ladki Bahin Yojana: The Maharashtra government’s Ladki Behen Yojana initially aimed to empower women and provide financial assistance. The scheme provides ₹1,500 per month to women aged 21 to 65 with an annual income of less than ₹2.5 lakh. However, recent data suggests that the scheme has also been misused.
Ladki Bahin Yojana: Thousands of Men Infiltrated the Scheme
A government investigation revealed that 12,431 men illegally availed themselves of the scheme’s benefits over the past year. Following the investigation, these men were removed from the beneficiary list. Additionally, 77,980 women were found ineligible and excluded from the list. This situation became a matter of concern for the government, as the scheme’s original purpose was to provide financial assistance only to eligible women.
Ladki Bahin Yojana: Losses in Lakhs and Government Efforts
A total loss of approximately ₹164.52 crore was incurred in providing benefits to 12,431 men and 77,980 ineligible women. Approximately 24.1 million women have benefited from this scheme so far. According to the Women and Child Development Department, at least 2,400 government employees also misused the scheme. Disciplinary action has been initiated against them.
Ladki Bahin Yojana: Strict Government Monitoring and Future Strategy
Maharashtra Women and Child Development Minister Aditi Tatkare stated that ineligible beneficiaries will be identified only after a detailed investigation in all districts of the state. Under the guidance of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, appropriate action will be taken against those found ineligible. Eligible women will continue to receive benefits uninterrupted.
The government report also noted that many beneficiaries were simultaneously availing of multiple schemes, and some families benefited more than two members. This situation clearly indicates that the scheme’s operation requires improvement and strict monitoring.
Disclaimer: This article is based on available government information and media reports. The scheme details and the list of beneficiaries may be subject to future changes.
