Akola, Nov 25 (NationPress) Maharashtra's Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis confirmed on Tuesday that the government will continue the Ladki Bahin Yojana, a significant women’s welfare initiative.

Speaking at a rally for the nagar parishad elections in Hiwarkhed, Akola district, he stated, “As long as your Devabhau serves as Chief Minister, this scheme will remain active.” He urged women to trust the government, dismissing any rumors regarding the program's discontinuation.

Fadnavis emphasized the efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to enhance housing, education, and healthcare for the underprivileged. Celebrating one year since the government’s establishment, he assured, “Some believed that this government would terminate the Ladki Bahin scheme. But I assure my sisters, while I am Chief Minister, it will not be halted.”

He termed the day “historic,” marking the completion of the Ayodhya temple’s pinnacle while advocating for development and the ‘saffron’ success within local municipalities.

The Chief Minister reiterated that the BJP has endorsed candidates committed to honest governance, commending MLA Prakash Bharsakale for facilitating Hiwarkhed’s evolution from gram panchayat to nagar parishad. He called on voters to endorse the BJP’s vision for urban development rather than engage in disparaging campaigns.

Similarly, Deputy CM and Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde addressed rallies in Nashik, highlighting the Ladki Bahin Yojana as a pivotal factor in the government’s triumphs. Shinde criticized the opposition for failing to thwart the scheme, assuring that obstacles, such as KYC compliance, would be addressed, ensuring the program’s continuity.

Both leaders attributed the government’s stability and public backing to the empowerment and activism of women beneficiaries.

The Ladki Bahin Yojana offers a monthly cash allowance of Rs 1,500 to eligible women throughout Maharashtra, recognized as a hallmark initiative of the current administration. CM and Deputy CM pledged their unwavering commitment to the scheme’s continuation and expansion, aiming to further advance women’s social and economic empowerment.

Initially termed a “gamechanger” in the preceding Assembly elections, the Ladki Bahin Yojana remains central to the ongoing local body elections. CM Fadnavis and Deputy CMs Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar have made the scheme a cornerstone of their campaign rhetoric, promising sustained support and enhancements.

Fadnavis acknowledged the blessings from women beneficiaries as key to the government’s electoral achievements, while Deputy CM Shinde reiterated that the program would persist as long as he remains in office.