In a strategic move ahead of the Maharashtra assembly elections, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, alongside Deputy Chief Ministers Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar, unveiled a comprehensive ‘report card’ detailing the Mahayuti government’s achievements over the past two years. During a press conference held on Wednesday, the leaders lauded the success of the Ladki Bahin Yojana and announced plans to introduce additional schemes inspired by its positive impact on women’s welfare.
“The Ladki Bahin Yojana has proven to be a successful initiative, and we are committed to launching more schemes along these lines,” CM Shinde stated, emphasizing that financial provisions will be allocated to ensure the effective implementation of these programs. The leaders expressed their dedication to enhancing the quality of life for the common man through collaborative efforts within the Mahayuti alliance.
Highlighting their commitment to their election manifesto, Shinde noted, “The toll tax exemption was part of our promises, and we have upheld our commitments.” He reiterated the importance of teamwork among the Mahayuti leaders in launching beneficial schemes. Deputy CM Ajit Pawar criticized the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) for spreading misinformation while showcasing successful government initiatives, particularly the Ladli Bahna Yojana, which has provided substantial benefits to women in the state.
The report card was presented at a press conference attended by various Mahayuti alliance leaders, including Ramdas Athavale, Praveen Darekar, and Sunil Tatkare. Fadnavis took a firm stance against the MVA’s criticisms of the Ladki Bahin Yojana, stating, “If the MVA claims that the government lacks funds to sustain the Ladki Bahin scheme, on what basis can they promise to continue it if they come to power?” He asserted that the MVA would likely discontinue the initiative, which has already seen four to five installments deposited into the accounts of over 2.5 crore beneficiaries across Maharashtra.
Ajit Pawar reinforced the idea that the Ladki Bahin scheme is not a temporary measure but a permanent program, with discussions underway to potentially increase the monthly installments provided to beneficiaries.
As the political landscape intensifies with the announcement of election dates, the Election Commission of India has set the stage for the assembly polls in Maharashtra. Voting for the 288 assembly seats will take place in a single phase on November 20, with results expected to be declared on November 23. The upcoming elections are shaping up to be a pivotal moment for the state’s political future, as parties prepare to vie for public support amidst a backdrop of promises and challenges.