Maharashtra Minister claims Ladki Bahin Yojana is impacting government’s farm loan waiver plans

Pune: Maharashtra’s Agriculture Minister Manikrao Kokate recently shared that the Ladki Bahin Yojana is putting a strain on the state’s finances. This scheme, which gives eligible women a monthly allowance of Rs 1,500, is expected to cost around Rs 46,000 crore each year.

Kokate mentioned that this financial burden is affecting the government’s ability to implement the farm loan waiver scheme. He noted that they are currently reviewing the financial situation and hope to move forward with the loan waivers in the next few months, once the state’s income improves.

Interestingly, the Ladki Bahin Yojana played a significant role in the ruling Mahayuti’s victory in the recent assembly elections. Meanwhile, Women and Child Development Minister Aditi Tatkare addressed concerns about bogus beneficiaries of the scheme. She stated that the government is looking into these complaints but emphasized that the applications were thoroughly reviewed before benefits were granted.

Tatkare also clarified that there are no plans to re-scrutinize all applications, despite some reports suggesting otherwise. The scheme has been largely successful, but there are still some complaints about fraudulent claims. She assured that the Women and Child Development department would handle any investigations into these issues.

So, it looks like the government is trying to balance support for women while also managing the financial implications for farmers. It’s a tricky situation for sure!