The Maharashtra government has removed 5 lakh women from the Ladki Bahin Yojana, a financial assistance scheme aimed at supporting economically weaker women. Following a verification process, these beneficiaries were found ineligible based on scheme criteria. While these women will no longer receive the ₹1,500 monthly benefit, the government has confirmed that no repayment is required for the amounts already disbursed.
The Ladki Bahin Yojana, launched in 2023, aims to provide financial aid to women aged 21-60 from economically weaker sections. However, a scrutiny process revealed that several beneficiaries did not meet the eligibility criteria.
Some of the key reasons for disqualification include:
✔ Higher income levels than the scheme’s threshold.
✔ Duplicate applications or incorrect documentation.
✔ Failure to meet age or residency criteria.
Despite their removal from the scheme, officials have clarified that previous recipients will not be required to return the financial aid they received before being disqualified. This decision aims to prevent financial hardship for those who may have unknowingly availed the benefits.
The Maharashtra government has assured that genuine beneficiaries will continue receiving payments, and fresh applications will be screened to ensure compliance with eligibility norms.
With 5 lakh beneficiaries removed, the government is expected to:
- Continue scrutiny to prevent fraudulent claims.
- Allow eligible women to apply or reapply with proper documentation.
- Streamline the process to ensure benefits reach deserving recipients.
The verification drive is part of a broader effort to ensure transparency and efficiency in Maharashtra’s welfare schemes.