Outlook Business Desk
Maharashtra current govt cuts benefit from ₹1,500 to ₹500 for 8 lakh women in Ladki Bahin scheme. The reduction in monthly payouts has triggered political backlash and raised budget-related questions.
The financial cut could reshape welfare economics and impact spending power in a major state like Maharashtra.
Scheme was launched to empower women voters in the 2024 state election. Government had planned ₹1,500/month aid for 1 crore women under the Ladki Bahin scheme, targeting low-income groups.
Only 8 lakh women will get ₹500 major scale down from original promise. The state has restricted benefits to a small fraction of the intended beneficiaries, citing fund constraints.
Budget balancing behind the move, officials say the cut helps manage the scheme within the ₹46,000 crore welfare budget for FY25.
Reduced payouts raise budget allocation questions. Sharp deviation from ₹1,500/month plan to ₹500/month signals challenges in executing large-scale welfare within Maharashtra’s fiscal limits.
Lower aid reduces buying power. Economists note that ₹500 may have little impact amid rising inflation and basic cost-of-living expenses.