BMC Election 2026: Eknath Shinde promises increase in assistance amount under 'Ladki Bahin Yojana'

Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde campaigning ahead of BMC election 2026. (Pic/X)

Ahead of the polling for the BMC Election 2026 and other civic bodies in Maharashtra, Deputy Chief Minister Ekanth Shinde made a significant announcement regarding the state government's flagship scheme -- 'Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana'.

Speaking at a rally in Ghatkopar area of eastern Mumbai, Shinde assured women that the current monthly assistance of Rs 1,500 is set to be increased soon.

While addressing the rally, the Deputy Chief Minister also emphasised that the welfare scheme is a permanent fixture of his administration.

Eknath Shinde, while addressing the rally, said, "I started the Ladki Bahin Yojana during my tenure, and regardless of what the opposition claims, this scheme will not be shut down," Shinde declared.

Shinde said, "Currently, our sisters receive Rs 1,500, but we are going to increase this amount. We stand by the promises made in our manifesto. Our goal is to see our sisters become self-reliant and ‘Lakhpatis' (millionaires)," as cited by news agency IANS.

He further promised that every family, regardless of "eligible" or "ineligible" status, would be provided with a rightful home. He also assured that the Urban Development Department would ensure there is no shortage of funds for these housing projects.

Maharashtra Government to deposit Rs 3000 to ‘Ladki Bahin Yojana' beneficiaries on January 14

In a related development, State Minister and BJP leader Girish Mahajan confirmed that the government is expediting payments for the festive season.

As reported by news agency IANS, to mark the occasion of Makar Sankranti, the state government will deposit a combined instalment of Rs 3,000 (covering the months of December and January) into the bank accounts of eligible beneficiaries of the Ladki Bahin Yojana. Funds will be deposited before January 14.

Maharashtra State Minister Mahajan also reiterated that the Mahayuti government, under the leadership of Devendra Fadnavis and Eknath Shinde, remains committed to the economic empowerment of women, reported PTI.

This move is being seen as a major outreach effort by the ruling Mahayuti alliance to consolidate its support base among women voters ahead of the crucial BMC election in 2026 and other civic body polls across the state.

(With inputs from IANS)