Majhi Ladki Behan Yojana Update: Over 20 Lakh Women May Be Excluded, Here's Why

Key Highlights

• Over 20 lakh women may be removed from the beneficiary list.
• Financial strain from the scheme is affecting state budgets.
• Women already in other schemes may lose eligibility.
• Monthly assistance of Rs 1,500 might be revised.
• Beneficiaries can check their status through the Nari Shakti Doot app.

Maharashtra’s Majhi Ladki Behan Yojana, a state initiative that provides financial support to women, is undergoing a major review, which may lead to the removal of over 20 lakh beneficiaries from the list. This news has been sparked by statements from Agriculture Minister Manikrao Kokate, who raised concerns about the financial strain the scheme is placing on the state’s budget. The announcement has created anxiety among women currently benefiting from the scheme.

Also Read: Majhi Ladki Behan Yojana: Changes Could Remove Some Women's Names from the List

Why Are Women Being Removed from the Scheme?

The Majhi Ladki Behan Yojana was launched in August 2024 by the then-Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, aimed at offering Rs 1,500 per month to eligible women. The scheme has been incredibly popular, and many women have benefitted from the direct cash transfers into their bank accounts. However, the program's growing costs have become a significant issue for the state’s finances. According to Minister Kokate, the financial burden of this scheme is limiting the state's capacity to fund other critical programs, such as the Krishi Rin Mafi Yojana (farmers' loan waiver scheme).

The Agriculture Minister stated that the funds allocated to the Majhi Ladki Behan Yojana are affecting the state's ability to raise surplus funds, which in turn impacts other schemes like the agricultural loan waiver. He emphasized that once the state's revenue improves, the government will revisit the agricultural loan waiver plan. For now, however, the state's financial situation requires reviewing and adjusting the Majhi Ladki Behan Yojana.

Also Read: Haryana Farmers to Receive Compensation for Crop Loss Due to Rain and Hailstorms

Impact on Beneficiaries: Who Will Be Affected?

The government is now in the process of reviewing the list of beneficiaries. It has been reported that women who are already receiving benefits from other government schemes may be removed from the Majhi Ladki Behan Yojana list. This includes beneficiaries of schemes like Namo Shetkari (for farmers) and other Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) schemes. As a result, it is estimated that over 20 lakh women, who are receiving benefits under multiple schemes, could be excluded.

Currently, around 2.36 crore women are receiving financial assistance under the Majhi Ladki Behan Yojana, and if the review goes ahead as planned, those receiving assistance through other welfare programs may lose their eligibility. This has led to widespread concern, especially among women who depend on monthly financial support.

Promises and Expectations Before Elections

Before the 2024 Maharashtra Assembly elections, the Majhi Ladki Behan Yojana was seen as a key part of the ruling coalition's election promises. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde had announced that if his government was re-elected, the monthly assistance under the scheme would be increased from Rs 1,500 to Rs 2,100. This promise was a key factor in the party’s victory. However, now, with the scheme’s financial burden becoming a concern, the government is shifting its focus to trimming the beneficiary list.

Also Read: PM Kisan Samman Nidhi: 19th Installment Expected in February 2025 – Key Details Farmers Must Know

How to Check Your Name in the New Beneficiary List

If you are a beneficiary of the Majhi Ladki Behan Yojana, it is important to check your name on the updated list.

To do so, follow these steps:

1. Download the Nari Shakti Doot app from the Google Play Store.
2. Open the app and enter your mobile number.
3. You will receive an OTP on your phone. Enter it to log in.
4. Once logged in, click on the option “Yapurvi Kaleje Arj” to view your current status.
5. If you are eligible, you will continue receiving the monthly financial assistance.

This is a simple and easy way to check whether you are still part of the beneficiary list and eligible for the next installment of funds.

What to Do If You Have Issues with the Scheme

If you face any issues or have concerns about your eligibility in the Majhi Ladki Behan Yojana, you can contact the Nari Shakti Doot app's helpline. To do this, go to the profile option in the app and call the helpline number 181. You can explain your issue and register a complaint if needed.

As the government reviews the scheme’s financial viability, many women will be closely watching for any changes. This review could significantly affect the future of the scheme and the women who depend on it. Therefore, it is crucial to stay informed and take action if necessary.

Also Read: Farmers to Get 12% Interest on Delayed Crop Insurance Claims Under PM Fasal Bima Yojana

CMV360 says

The review of Majhi Ladki Behan Yojana may exclude over 20 lakh women, as the government addresses financial strain. Beneficiaries should check their status to stay informed about eligibility and future benefits.