Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav announced on February 10 that the state government will distribute financial aid amounting to Rs 1,553 crore directly into the bank accounts of over 1.27 crore women under the ‘Ladli Behna Yojana.’ This initiative, aimed at enhancing the economic independence and well-being of women, has been a crucial part of the state’s welfare measures. The Chief Minister shared the news on X, formerly known as Twitter, stating, “Today in Sonkatch, Dewas district, under the Ladli Behna Scheme, I am going to transfer Rs 1,553 crore to the accounts of 1.27 crore Ladli Behnas.” This marks the 21st installment of the scheme, which has significantly benefited women across Madhya Pradesh.
The scheme has witnessed an overwhelming response, with more than 1.25 crore women registering to receive its benefits. Initially, the government provided Rs 1,000 per month to eligible women under this program, but the stipend was later increased to Rs 1,250 per month. The state government has also announced plans to gradually raise this amount to Rs 3,000 per month, thereby providing substantial financial support to women from economically weaker sections. The scheme's success has inspired other states, including Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Delhi, to implement similar initiatives to support women's welfare.
The Ladli Behna Yojana was originally launched on January 28, 2023, by former Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, with the primary objective of promoting the well-being, health, nutrition, and financial independence of women in Madhya Pradesh. The scheme has played a vital role in empowering women by providing them with direct financial assistance, which can be used for healthcare, education, livelihood opportunities, and other essential needs.
As per the official guidelines, all married women, including widows, divorced, and deserted women, aged between 21 and 60 years, are eligible to apply for the scheme. However, applicants must be permanent residents of Madhya Pradesh, and their annual family income must be below Rs 2.50 lakh. Additionally, they must not fall under the category of ineligible applicants, as specified in the scheme’s provisions.
To avail of the benefits under the Ladli Behna Yojana, applicants need to provide specific documents, including a Family Samagra ID, an individual Samagra ID, an Aadhaar card, an Aadhaar-linked DBT-enabled bank account, and a registered mobile number. The seamless transfer of funds through direct benefit transfer (DBT) ensures transparency and prevents any leakages in the system, making the scheme highly effective in reaching its intended beneficiaries.
The Madhya Pradesh government’s continued efforts to expand and enhance the Ladli Behna Yojana reflect its commitment to improving the socio-economic status of women in the state. By gradually increasing the financial aid under this scheme, the government aims to provide women with greater financial security and independence, enabling them to lead more empowered and self-sufficient lives.
