Pune: Ajit Pawar Defends ‘Chief Minister Majhi Ladki Bahin’ Scheme Amid Criticism

Pune: The Mahayuti government has introduced the ‘Chief Minister Majhi Ladki Bahin’ scheme, a welfare initiative aimed at providing financial assistance to women, ahead of the upcoming assembly elections. Under this scheme, eligible women will receive Rs. 1,500 per month. Despite the apparent benefits, the scheme has faced criticism regarding the timing and disbursement of funds. Ajit Pawar addressed these concerns in a party meeting in Ahmednagar today, providing clarity and reassurance about the scheme.

Speaking at the meeting, Ajit Pawar emphasised that women do not need to pay any money to enrol in the scheme. “The women in the state do not need to pay a single rupee for this scheme. Action has been taken against those who have tried to extort money from women for this purpose. You must fill out the form for the Ladki Bahin Yojana. The government is assisting women in this process, with the help of Anganwadi workers and administrative colleagues, ensuring a smooth application process,” Pawar stated.

Addressing the difficulties some women have faced with the online application process, Pawar reassured the people that the government is committed to resolving these issues. “Do not worry if you are facing problems while filling out the online form. There may be some teething problems as this is a new scheme, but we are standing firmly behind you,” he said.

Pawar also announced the timeline for the disbursement of the funds. “We are going to pay Rs. 1,500 per month directly into your account. To address any delays, we will make a combined payment for the months of July and August. Women who have not yet filled out the form can still do so in August and will be eligible for the July installment as well,” he assured.

Highlighting the social intent behind the scheme, Pawar mentioned that it aims to support the needs of poor women across the state. “This scheme has been created to meet some of the essential needs of poor women in the state. However, I have faced criticism from the opposition regarding this initiative,” he remarked.

In a move designed to symbolise support and solidarity, Pawar announced that the payments would be made on the occasion of Rakshabandhan. “Together with the Chief Minister and both Deputy Chief Ministers, we have decided to deposit the funds into women’s accounts on Rakshabandhan, which is on August 19. This means Rs. 3,000 will be credited to each beneficiary’s account. Despite such a well-intentioned plan, the opposition continues to criticise me,” he concluded.