Mumbai: Despite earlier assurances that only complaint-based cases would undergo verification, the state government has initiated a large-scale verification drive targeting beneficiaries of the Ladki Bahin Scheme. The move is expected to significantly reduce the number of women eligible for the financial aid program.
As part of the scrutiny process, Anganwadi sevikas have been directed to cross-check beneficiary details, including names on Aadhar cards, bank accounts, annual income proofs, and domicile status. Additionally, they will verify whether any beneficiaries or their family members own four-wheelers or hold government jobs, which could lead to disqualification from the scheme.
According to a senior government official, the monthly financial benefit of ₹1,500 will be stopped if a beneficiary’s family owns a four-wheeler, has a government employee, or is already availing financial aid under schemes such as the Sanjay Gandhi Niradhar Yojana.
The ongoing verification follows the recent removal of 5 lakh beneficiaries from the list approximately 2.46 crore beneficiaries. Among them, 1.5 lakh women were found to be above the scheme’s upper age limit of 65 years, while another 2 lakh were already receiving ₹1,500 per month under the Sanjay Gandhi Niradhar Yojana.
Additionally, the state has clarified that the ₹1,000 stipend under the Namo Kisan Samman Yojana will be merged with the Ladki Bahin Scheme, allowing those eligible for both to receive a total of ₹5,000 per month under the latter.
The large-scale verification drive signals the government’s intent to streamline beneficiary lists and prevent duplication of financial assistance, ensuring funds reach the most deserving candidates.
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