Mumbai, Oct 6 (NationPress) Maharashtra's food and civil supply minister Chhagan Bhujbal stated on Monday that the implementation of the much-discussed Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana has significantly impacted the state’s financial health and affected departmental budgets. This marks the first time a minister from the MahYuti government has acknowledged these issues since the scheme's launch before last year's state assembly elections.

“The expenses associated with the Ladki Bahin Yojana, which range between Rs 40,000 to 45,000 crore, are hindering the execution of the Anandacha Shidha scheme, which provides crucial food supplies during festive periods. If we need to accommodate these costs, it will undeniably create budgetary pressures elsewhere. Furthermore, funds will also be required for compensation packages for flood-affected areas. As a result, some initiatives may not be feasible this year,” he explained to the press.

The seasoned NCP leader, Minister Bhujbal, expressed uncertainty about future financial conditions.

“What is clear is that all departments are experiencing a funding shortage. Departments, including Public Works, have an outstanding backlog of Rs 84,000 crore. We discussed this in cabinet meetings, revealing that despite awarding contracts, contractors are struggling to fulfill their obligations without receiving their dues. If we continue to distribute funds without caution, we may face serious financial challenges,” he added.

The Majhi Ladki Bahin scheme was initiated by the state government prior to the Maharashtra assembly elections.

This initiative provides eligible women living below the poverty line with financial support of Rs 1,500 monthly through direct benefit transfer (DBT).

The ruling Mahayuti had promised to raise this amount to Rs 2,100 per month, a commitment that remains unfulfilled amid decreasing finances.

Minister Bhujbal's remarks come in response to concerns regarding the potential discontinuation of his department's Anandacha Shidha scheme.

The Aanandacha Shidha program, launched in 2022 for Diwali, offered four essential food items at a subsidized rate of Rs 100 to families with saffron ration cards.

Similar kits were distributed in 2023 for occasions like Gudi Padwa and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s birthday, and continued during the Ganesh Festival/Diwali. In 2024, kits were given out during the consecration of the Sri Ram Temple in Ayodhya and at Ganesh Festival, each costing Rs 500 crore and benefiting around 1.6 crore people on average.

The minister also indicated that another initiative, Shiv Bhojan Thali, is nearing closure. “Yes, it is correct. We typically require Rs 140 crore annually to serve two lakh individuals under this scheme. However, we have only received Rs 70 crore, and I do not foresee any improvements in this situation,” he stated.

Under the Shiv Bhojan program, beneficiaries receive a nutritious meal for just Rs 10, which includes two chapatis, a bowl of vegetable, a bowl of dal, and a bowl of rice. The actual cost for urban areas is Rs 50 and Rs 35 for rural areas, with the government covering the difference.