Mumbai, February 22 – Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said on Sunday that the state government’s flagship “Ladki Bahin Yojana” would continue, dismissing concerns from the opposition about the scheme’s future, and announced that the state budget for 2026-27 would be presented in the legislature on March 6.
Speaking at a press conference after attending the customary tea meeting and Cabinet meeting on the eve of the Budget Session, Shinde said that the “Ladki Bahin Yojana” remains a key welfare initiative aimed at supporting women.
Under the scheme, eligible women beneficiaries receive monthly financial assistance of Rs 1,500. Shinde said that the program has significantly contributed to women’s empowerment and will remain operational.
He also criticized opposition parties for questioning the continuation of the scheme and said that the government remained committed to welfare initiatives.
The Maharashtra Legislature’s Budget Session is scheduled to be held from February 23 to March 25, 2026, with the annual budget to be presented on March 6.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis confirmed that he would present the state budget and said that financial transfers to Maharashtra from the Central government had increased by Rs 20,000 crore.
Fadnavis also acknowledged the contribution of former Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in preparing previous state budgets, noting his experience and role in shaping fiscal policy.
Commenting on the Maha Vikas Aghadi’s boycott of the customary tea meeting, Shinde criticised the opposition, alleging that it was divided and engaging in political protests instead of participating in legislative discussions.
Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar, who will participate in the Budget Session in her new role, also recalled the contribution of former Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in presenting the state budget on multiple occasions.
Shinde reiterated that the government remains focused on welfare measures and economic development and expressed confidence that the upcoming budget would address the needs of citizens and strengthen the state’s growth.
