Maharashtra's Minister of State for Home, Yogesh Kadam, delivered a firm assurance to citizens in Pune on Wednesday evening, stating that the state's flagship 'Ladki Bahin' scheme will continue without interruption. The minister also issued a strong warning against attempts to create an atmosphere of fear and intimidation among residents of the Yerwada area.
Minister's Firm Stand on Women's Welfare
Addressing a well-attended Shiv Sena campaign meeting in Yerwada's Ward No. 6, Yogesh Kadam directly tackled concerns regarding the future of the women-centric scheme. He expressed his delight at seeing a large gathering of women beneficiaries present at the event. Kadam stated that he would send a photograph of the meeting to Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde as evidence of the strong public support for the initiative.
The minister took a stern stance against any malicious attempts to undermine public confidence. He explicitly instructed citizens that if anyone was deliberately spreading intimidation and the local police administration failed to act, they should report the matter immediately to leaders of his party. This move was aimed at ensuring direct accountability and a swift response to public grievances.
Focus on Development and Financial Independence
The public meeting was organized to show support for Shiv Sena candidates Anand Goyal, Snehal Jadhav, Kishor Waghmare, and Komal Waghchaure. Senior Shiv Sena leader Neelam Gorhe was also present on the occasion. Gorhe addressed the gathering, shifting focus to urban development and economic empowerment.
She cautioned residents against trusting individuals who, in alleged collusion with outside builders, promote false Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) projects. Gorhe outlined the government's vision, stating, "The government had a clear and transparent plan for slum redevelopment, and we promise that over the next 10 years, houses would be provided through SRA projects in a systematic manner."
In a significant announcement regarding women's economic participation, Gorhe revealed the government's ambitious target under the 'Lakhpati Didi' initiative. The goal is to make nearly 2 lakh women across Maharashtra financially independent, thereby strengthening livelihoods and enhancing economic security for families.
Reiteration of Government Commitment
Both leaders used the platform to reinforce the state government's dedication to welfare policies aimed at women and marginalized communities. Minister Kadam reiterated that the Maharashtra government remains fully committed to women-centric welfare schemes and will ensure their smooth and uninterrupted implementation.
The event in Yerwada served as a dual-purpose platform: to rally political support for local candidates and to publicly reaffirm the administration's policy priorities. The strong emphasis on the continuation of the 'Ladki Bahin' scheme and the new 'Lakhpati Didi' target signals a continued focus on women's welfare as a central pillar of the government's agenda.
