In recent developments in Maharashtra, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has firmly stated that the state government is on track with the implementation of the Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana. This ambitious scheme aims to provide financial assistance to underprivileged women and has garnered significant attention ahead of the upcoming assembly elections.
Pawar’s remarks come in the wake of Union Minister Nitin Gadkari's comments, which raised concerns about the scheme's potential impact on timely subsidy payments in other sectors.
During a public event in Nagpur, Gadkari cautioned that the substantial funds required for the Ladki Bahin scheme might hinder the prompt disbursement of subsidies in other areas.
His comments have sparked criticism from opposition parties, who argue that the scheme could strain the state’s finances. They have labelled the initiative as a tactic to gain electoral favour while potentially draining resources from other essential government programs.
Despite these concerns, Ajit Pawar reassured the public that the government is fully committed to the successful rollout of the Ladki Bahin Yojana. He emphasised that if there had been any significant issues regarding the scheme's implementation, it would not have been launched in the first place.
Pawar's confidence reflects his role as the finance minister, during which he announced the scheme’s ambitious budget of ₹46,000 crore. He stated that financial resources would not be a hindrance, asserting that the government had thoroughly considered the viability of the scheme before its initiation.
As part of his ongoing Jansanman Yatra, Pawar has been promoting the Ladki Bahin scheme through rallies in various regions, including Majalgaon and Parali in Beed district.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to creating a supportive environment for investors by offering essential resources such as land, water, and electricity. Additionally, Pawar mentioned that tax exemptions would be provided to attract investments and ensure the speedy execution of development projects.
In addressing Gadkari’s remarks, Pawar expressed his intent to speak with the Union Minister for clarification. However, he remained adamant that the implementation of the Ladki Bahin scheme was proceeding without any complications. He pointed out that the government had initiated this program with careful consideration of its potential benefits for the people of Maharashtra.
Pawar also criticised the opposition for their ongoing attacks on the MahaYuti government regarding the scheme, especially as the assembly elections approached.
He highlighted how the opposition had previously dismissed the Ladki Bahin scheme as non-viable but had changed their tune after the direct financial assistance began reaching eligible women beneficiaries. He noted that the opposition's narrative had shifted from scepticism to threats of discontinuing the scheme if they regained power.
The Deputy Chief Minister proudly claimed that the Ladki Bahin scheme has become immensely popular among women across the state. He remarked that, despite the opposition's attempts to undermine the initiative, the government remains focused on its goals and objectives without being swayed by criticism.
Pawar also took the opportunity to counter allegations from the opposition about capital flight and industry relocation from Maharashtra to other states. He accused opposition leaders of spreading false rumours as a political tactic during the election season.
He asserted that significant investments are still being directed toward Maharashtra, citing examples such as the expansions of Kirloskar and Toyota companies in Sambhajinagar, along with JSW Company’s plans to invest ₹40,000 crore in the state.
Additionally, he mentioned the foundation stone laying for numerous development projects in Amravati, reinforcing the notion that the state remains an attractive destination for investment.
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