Pune: In a unique development, a Pune woman has voluntarily given up her entitlement to the "Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin" scheme, citing ineligibility.
This comes amidst the administration’s call for ineligible beneficiaries to renounce the benefits to ease the financial strain on the state treasury. Despite this request, other ineligible recipients have not followed suit, leaving the administration concerned.
The scheme, which has gained massive popularity, has also drawn criticism for its financial implications. Some state ministers have acknowledged the need for measures to ensure only eligible beneficiaries benefit from the program.
State Administration’s Appeal
Inspired by the central government's successful appeal for voluntary surrender of LPG subsidies, the state administration has urged ineligible beneficiaries of the scheme to come forward and give up their benefits. So far, only one woman from Pune has responded positively.
According to officials, over 20 lakh women across the district had their applications approved for the scheme before elections without thorough verification. The administration now plans to conduct a screening process to identify ineligible beneficiaries.
Eligibility Criteria for the Scheme
The scheme's benefits are meant for women who meet the following criteria:
Age: 18 to 65 years.
Income: Family’s annual income must not exceed ₹2.5 lakh.
Employment: No family member should be employed in government service or paying income tax.
Other Schemes: Beneficiaries should not be availing of other government welfare schemes such as the "Sanjay Gandhi Niradhar" scheme.
Vehicle Ownership: Women owning four-wheelers are not eligible.
Steps to Relinquish Benefits
Women wishing to voluntarily relinquish their benefits must:
Submit a written application.
Approach the Child Development Project Officer (CDPO) or District Council.
Clearly state their intent to forgo the scheme's benefits in the application.
The names of such beneficiaries will be removed through the district-level system.