Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, who holds the finance portfolio, presented the state Budget for 2024-25, ahead of the state assembly elections, likely to be held in October. This budget includes a series of crucial announcements aimed at bolstering various sectors and appealing to the electorate.
One of the most significant announcements is the ‘Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana,’ a financial assistance scheme that will provide a monthly allowance of ₹1,500 to eligible women aged between 21 and 60 years. The scheme, set to be implemented from July, will receive an annual budgetary allocation of ₹46,000 crore.
In another significant move, the government has introduced the ‘Mukhyamantri Annapurna Yojana’ under which eligible families of five will receive three free cooking gas cylinders every year.
Furthermore, the government has announced a ₹5000 per hectare bonus for all farmers who cultivate cotton and soybean in Maharashtra. This move aims to provide support to farmers and incentivize their agricultural efforts.
The government has also pledged to provide a ₹5 per liter bonus to milk-producing farmers, even after July 1, 2024. This initiative aims to encourage dairy farming and secure the livelihoods of milk producers.
Finally, in a bid to enhance the support for families affected by animal attacks, the government has increased the monetary assistance provided in such cases. Now, the next of kin will receive ₹25 lakhs, compared to the previous amount of ₹20 lakhs. These measures reflect the government’s commitment to safeguarding the well-being of citizens and providing financial relief to those in need.
