Pune: Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has reassured beneficiaries of the 'Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana' that the funds provided under the scheme will not be reclaimed, despite opposition claims that the initiative is temporary.
Speaking at the scheme's launch in Balewadi, Pawar emphasized that the financial support is a gift, akin to "Bhau Beej" (a traditional gift given by brothers to sisters), and firmly stated, "I assure you in the presence of the Chief Minister that these funds will not be taken back." Pawar also expressed that today marks one of the happiest days in his political career.
Ajit Pawar highlighted that the scheme was designed to empower women and criticized the opposition for making unfounded accusations. He also underscored the government's recent measures, such as waiving electricity bills for farmers and providing an additional ₹5 per liter subsidy for milk.
"This government is for the common people," Pawar said, noting that the opposition's legal challenges against the scheme had failed. He observed that the joy on women's faces is evidence of the scheme's success and urged the public to dismiss rumors, reaffirming that over 10.3 million women have already received the funds.
Pawar further committed that the government aims to provide ₹90,000 to each beneficiary over five years.
Ajit Pawar Acknowledges Leaders by Their Mothers' Names
During his speech, Ajit Pawar notably referred to Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis by their mothers' names, adding a personal touch to his address.
Scheme Aims to Benefit 25 Million Women
Minister Aditi Tatkare announced that the scheme, introduced as a Raksha Bandhan gift from the "dear brothers" (referring to the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Ministers), will continue to register women, with the target of reaching 25 million beneficiaries.
Opposition's Jealousy Criticized by Dr. Gorhe
Dr. Neelam Gorhe took a jab at the opposition, describing their criticism of the 'Ladki Bahin' scheme as a result of jealousy. She highlighted that only 1% of global property is owned by women and questioned why the opposition is so troubled by initiatives that increase women's assets.