Ladki Bahin Scheme: No Change in Eligibility Criteria, Says Minister Aditi Tatkare
Pimpri, 21st February 2025: Maharashtra’s Women and Child Development Minister Aditi Tatkare has clarified that there has been no change in the eligibility criteria for the state government’s Ladki Bahin scheme. Dismissing opposition claims, she stated that the scrutiny process has been ongoing for months and was not initiated after the elections.
Tatkare revealed that during verification, 75,000 applications in August and over one lakh in September were found ineligible and subsequently rejected. “There have been complaints that some women are receiving benefits despite owning four-wheelers. A thorough inquiry will be conducted into these cases,” she assured.
Tatkare, who was in Pimpri-Chinchwad for an event on Thursday, interacted with reporters and reaffirmed that the scheme’s criteria remain unchanged:
- Women must have an annual income below ₹2.5 lakh.
- They should not own a four-wheeler.
- They must be residents of Maharashtra.
- They should not be government employees.
“No previous beneficiaries have had their benefits withdrawn. The scrutiny process is routine, and only ineligible applicants are being removed,” she emphasized.
On Allegations Against Minister Dhananjay Munde
Responding to allegations against Social Justice Minister Dhananjay Munde, Tatkare remarked, “Allegations alone do not prove wrongdoing. Investigations are underway, and the final decision rests with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar.”
She also stated that she was unaware whether activist Anjali Damania had any evidence supporting her accusations. “The Chief Minister will review any documents if submitted,” she added.
Guardian Minister Role Not the Ultimate Priority
On the guardian ministership of Nashik and Raigad districts, Tatkare said that the decision would be made by the three Mahayuti leaders. She assured that governance and development would not be impacted by delays in assigning the role.
“The Mahayuti alliance remains united. Even if there are differences, they will be resolved internally. The position of Guardian Minister is not everything; what matters is taking Maharashtra forward,” she asserted.
