Maharashtra Budget Fails To Deliver On Rs 2,100 Monthly Payout Under Ladki Bahin Scheme

Last Updated:March 10, 2025, 17:46 IST

The state budget earmarked Rs 36,000 crore for the ‘Ladki Bahin’ scheme for FY 2025-2026. But, there was no mention of a hike to Rs 2,100 as monthly payout, which had been hinted at before the assembly elections

Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar and MoS for Finance Ashish Jaiswal arrive to present the state budget 2025-26 during the budget session, in Mumbai on March 10. (Image: PTI)

The absence of the Rs 2,100 monthly payout, under the much-publicised ‘Ladki Bahin’ scheme in Maharashtra, in the budget allocation has not gone down well with women beneficiaries.

Presented on March 10, the state budget earmarked Rs 36,000 crore for the flagship scheme for FY 2025-2026. But, there was no mention of Rs 2,100 as a monthly payout, which had been hinted at by the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance before the assembly elections.

Under the scheme, 2.53 crore women have received financial aid since July 2024, with a total expenditure of Rs 33,232 crore so far. For the next financial year, the state government has proposed Rs 36,000 crore. But, many were expecting an increase from Rs 1,500 to Rs 2,100 in the monthly payout, based on pre-poll statements.

During the winter session of the Maharashtra assembly, there were indications that the amount could be raised. But, with the state budget now presented, it is clear that the payout remains unchanged.

There was a growing belief among women beneficiaries under the scheme that the amount will soon be increased, with many referring to an indirect assurance from Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. But, women and child development minister Aditi Tatkare later said there is no formal announcement about a hike.

Tatkare said while the state government’s vision is for long-term welfare, the implementation of such changes is a gradual process. “A government policy or scheme is implemented over a five-year period. The budget does not mention Rs 2,100 anywhere. Decisions on further enhancements will be taken when deemed appropriate," she said.

This has led to disappointment among beneficiaries and attracted criticism from the opposition, which has accused the state government of giving false hope to women and using the scheme for political gains.

The Ladki Bahin scheme was launched with the promise of economic empowerment for women. The initiative aims to provide financial aid to those from lower-income backgrounds, helping them with household expenses, small businesses, and essentials.

Many women said they had already started planning their budget around the expected Rs 2,100 monthly payout. “We expected that with this budget, the government will start the Rs 2,100 instalment from next quarter but it seems there is no such provision," said Rekha Sawant, a Thane resident.

She added: “The extra amount would have meant better healthcare, children’s education, or small investments in businesses."

The opposition slammed the state government, alleging that it had misled women. “The Mahayuti government, which came to power with big promises to women, has betrayed the trust of Maharashtra’s ‘ladki bahins’. The much-anticipated increase to Rs 2,100 per month under the scheme has not been fulfilled as there is no budgetary allocation at least this year," said senior Congress leader Vijay Waddetiwar.

He added: “As Ajit Pawar’s pink jacket disappeared after the elections, promises made to ‘ladki bahins’ have also vanished from his speeches."

The BJP, meanwhile, defended the government’s decision saying the scheme itself is a major financial commitment, and the focus should be on successful implementation rather than increasing the amount.

“The government has already provided significant financial assistance to over 2.5 crore women. The priority is ensuring continued support rather than making promises that may not be immediately feasible," BJP MLA Ram Kadam told reporters.

The state government has indicated that it is working on additional measures to ensure benefits to women beyond direct cash transfers. Ajit Pawar said some women’s groups have used the funds for business ventures, for which they are considering special initiatives to support them.

He said the administration’s focus now is on financial independence rather than financial aid, with talks to empower women through business support programmes and microfinance assistance.

In addition to the Ladki Bahin scheme, the state government also made a provision for the ‘Lek Ladki’ scheme, which is aimed at supporting girls in education and career development. The budget has allocated Rs 50.55 crore for this initiative, which has already benefited 1.13 lakh girls. Under this scheme, the government covers 100% tuition and examination fees for girls from families earning less than Rs 8 lakh per year.

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