Maharashtra: Two Major Changes in Chief Minister’s Ladki Bahin Yojana

Reported by Tikam Shekhawat

Mumbai, 2nd July 2024: In a significant update to the recently announced ‘Mukhyamantri Ladki Bahin’ scheme, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has made important announcements in the Legislative Assembly. The age limit for the scheme has been extended from 60 years to 65 years, and the requirement for land ownership has been removed. These changes aim to provide more extensive relief to women across Maharashtra.

The ‘Mukhyamantri Ladki Bahin’ scheme, introduced by the grand coalition government in the recent state budget, aims to support eligible women with a monthly allowance of Rs 1,500. This scheme is designed to benefit poor women and holders of yellow and orange ration cards. With the new adjustments, approximately three and a half crore women are expected to benefit.

Key Changes to the Scheme:
1. Age Limit Increase: The age limit has been extended from 60 to 65 years, allowing women aged 21 to 65 to take advantage of the scheme.
2. Removal of Land Ownership Condition: The requirement for owning farmland has been omitted, making the scheme more inclusive.

Who Will Benefit?
– Married, widowed, divorced, abandoned, and destitute women in Maharashtra aged 21 to 65 years.

Eligibility Criteria:
– Must be a resident of Maharashtra.
– Annual family income should not exceed Rs 2.5 lakhs.
– Beneficiary must have a bank account.

Required Documents:
– Ration Card
– Aadhaar Card
– Maharashtra State Residence Certificate
– Birth Certificate
– Income Proof
– Bank Account Xerox
– Passport Size Photograph
– Undertaking to comply with the scheme’s terms and conditions

Application Process:
Eligible women can apply online through the application portal, mobile app, or Setu Suvidha Kendra.