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Maharashtra Elections 2024: Will The Ladki Bahin Yojana Be A Gamechanger For Mahayuti Or A Failed Poll Plank?

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Maharashtra Elections 2024: Will The Ladki Bahin Yojana Be A Gamechanger For Mahayuti Or A Failed Poll Plank?

With the Maharashtra Assembly elections around the corner, political analysts are closely watching the effects of the ruling alliance’s Ladki Bahin Yojana, seen as a possible game-changer for the Mahayuti government, which includes Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and Ajit Pawar’s faction of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). 

While the scheme is viewed as a strategic move to win over women voters, recent defections from the ruling camp to the opposition suggest the political battle is not yet over and the voters might be signalling towards a change.

Launched by the ruling alliance, the Ladki Bahin Yojana aims to empower girls and women in Maharashtra, addressing a key demographic of voters. Before the scheme was paused due to the model code of conduct, the government had already transferred five instalments of ₹1,500 per month to 2.34 crore applicants. This amounted to a significant outlay of ₹17,174 crore, raising questions about the sustainability of such populist measures and their potential electoral impact in run up to the state elections.

Populist schemes: A proven strategy?

Populist schemes have long played a crucial role in Indian elections, from cash transfers and farm loan waivers to subsidised electricity and women-centric initiatives. In some cases, these schemes have significantly swayed voters, as seen in past elections across the country.

In Delhi in 2020, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) won a landslide victory by offering free electricity (up to 200 units), free water, bus rides for women, and improvements in government schools. These promises, particularly in education and women’s empowerment, resonated with lower- and middle-income voters, allowing AAP to secure 62 out of 70 seats.

In Telangana in 2018, the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) introduced the Rythu Bandhu scheme, which provided direct financial support to farmers. The scheme was credited for the party’s strong showing, winning 88 of 119 seats, and solidified TRS’s base among rural voters.

In Tamil Nadu, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) promised financial assistance for women, free bus rides for women, and support for farmers and low-income households ahead of the 2021 elections. The DMK won 159 of 234 seats, defeating the ruling AIADMK. The promise of a monthly stipend for homemakers played a key role in mobilising women voters, contributing to the DMK’s success.

Shivraj Singh Chouhan-led government in Madhya Pradesh announced several populist schemes including the Ladli Behna Yojana targeting women aged 23-60 years from low-income families and providing them with Rs 1,250 per month ahead of the 2023 assembly elections. As a result, his government won the state with a thumping majority even after years of anti-incumbency much to the Congress’ disappointment.

Maharashtra’s complex political terrain

Despite the success of populist schemes in other states, Maharashtra presents a unique challenge. Over the past few years, the state’s political landscape has been marked by party splits, shifting alliances, and heightened political rivalries. The battle for power in the upcoming elections is not just about promises and schemes; it’s about the very survival of political entities and their leaders.

Political analysts believe that while the Ladki Bahin Yojana might appeal to women voters, it is difficult to predict whether it will guarantee electoral success in Maharashtra, where the political dynamics are far more fluid and unpredictable.

Lessons from failures of populist schemes

Not all populist schemes have translated into electoral victories. There are instances where parties have failed to win despite offering attractive welfare measures:

In Madhya Pradesh (2023), the Congress promised its Nyay Yojana and farm loan waivers, yet it struggled to win seats. Delayed implementation and doubts about the schemes’ financial sustainability weakened their appeal, and local governance issues seemed to take precedence over populist promises.

In Tamil Nadu (2021), the AIADMK’s wide-ranging populist measures, such as Amma Canteens, free laptops, and financial support for women, failed to prevent the party’s defeat. Voter fatigue after 10 years of AIADMK rule, combined with the DMK’s more attractive welfare promises, played a significant role in the shift.

In West Bengal (2021), the BJP promised cash transfers, free rice, and farmer support under the PM-KISAN scheme, but these promises couldn’t outmatch Mamata Banerjee’s Trinamool Congress (TMC), which retained a strong voter base through its established welfare schemes like Kanyashree and Rupashree (for women’s education and marriage).

Why populist schemes sometimes fail

Several factors can undermine the effectiveness of populist schemes:

– Delayed or inconsistent implementation: If schemes are not implemented swiftly or face administrative hurdles, they may fail to gain the expected electoral support. For example, the Congress’s farm loan waiver in Madhya Pradesh was delayed, causing voter scepticism.

– Over-saturation of promises: In states like Tamil Nadu and West Bengal, where intense political competition leads to a flood of promises, voters may become desensitised. The novelty and appeal of populist schemes diminish when both ruling and opposition parties offer similar packages.

– Leadership and governance issues: Strong leadership often outweighs the appeal of populist schemes. In West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee’s established leadership and connection with local communities helped her retain power, while in Tamil Nadu, the AIADMK struggled with leadership challenges after J. Jayalalithaa’s death.

Political turmoil and defections

Amid the Ladki Bahin Yojana’s potential to boost the ruling coalition’s chances, the exodus of leaders from the Mahayuti government raises concerns about its winnability. Several key leaders from Ajit Pawar’s NCP and BJP factions have defected to Sharad Pawar and Uddhav Thackeray’s camps citing dissatisfaction within the ruling alliance. More defections are expected as party members face uncertainty over ticket allocations for the upcoming elections, further complicating the ruling coalition’s prospects.

The Ladki Bahin Yojana might be seen as a masterstroke by the ruling coalition, but the defections and political unrest signal that the race for power in Maharashtra is far from over. Whether or not the scheme will help the Mahayuti government retain power is to be seen when results will be declared on the evening of November 23.

Maharashtra

The Holy Prophet came as a mercy to the world not only to humans but also to animals.

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Mumbai: the arrival of the government, the arrival of the master, the arrival of the lord, the streets of Mumbai echoed with the loud slogans of “Welcome, welcome, welcome” when the historic Muhammadi procession was taken out from the Khalifat House. The procession was warmly welcomed at every place. The procession was accompanied by a convoy of lovers of the Prophet, reciting Naat and Manaqabat along the way, playing drums. The convoy of lovers of the Prophet passed through the Muslim-majority areas of Nagpara, Madnapura, Do Tanki and other highways and came to a peaceful end at Mastan Talab after reciting Naat, Manaqabat and prayers. Before the procession, a meeting was held at the Khalifat House, where scholars described the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him) as a mercy for the worlds and said that today the world has come to his aid. Addressing the gathering, Mufti Hazrat Allama Khaliq Ashraf, Principal of Darul Uloom Ashrafia Mazhar Uloom, said that until 40 years before the announcement of Prophethood, people were indeed human, but they did not have human qualities. He (PBUH) transformed the beasts, i.e., beasts, into humans on the land of Arabia. My Holy Prophet did not come as a mercy only for humans, but he came as a mercy for animals as well. When the Prophet (peace be upon him) visited the house of a deer owner, the deer said that it had two children and wanted permission to breastfeed them. The Prophet (peace be upon him) told the deer owner that this deer is the mother of two children and wants permission to breastfeed her children and will return after breastfeeding. The owner then asked who would guarantee that the deer would return. The Prophet (peace be upon him) guaranteed the return of the deer and the deer returned after breastfeeding. The Prophet (peace be upon him) expressed his desire to buy the deer. The deer owner gave the deer to the Prophet (peace be upon him) and then he untied its rope and set it free. The deer said that you are Muhammad Mustafa (peace be upon him), you were the only one who could set me free. You (peace be upon him) were merciful not only to humans but also to animals. This Muhammadan procession will be successful when humanity is shown in the procession. If an ambulance comes on the way, give way to it. Eid Priority should be given to welfare works on Milad-un-Nabi and good deeds should be done on the birth of Muhammad (peace be upon him). This will be our true tribute to the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him). Deputy Chairperson of the Legislative Council Sachin Ahir said that the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him) has spread the message of peace and is the standard bearer of justice and humanity. The message of brotherhood and peace is spread in the procession of Eid Milad-un-Nabi and unity is achieved. We are different, our ways of worship are unique, but our homeland is one and our goal is to promote unity. Member of Parliament Congress Senior Leader Imran Pratap Garhi started his speech with a poem and said that.

I respect all the people in the world, but after Mustafa, Imran Pratap Garhi narrated the history of the Khilafat Movement and said that Gandhiji had started the Non-Cooperation Movement along with the Khilafat Movement. When the Messenger of Allah was sent into the world, he was sent as a mercy for the whole world. India is like a bouquet and we have made countless sacrifices for the freedom of this country. Therefore, the unity and solidarity of this country is its specialty. Former MLA Waris Pathan said that this is not a political procession, by the grace of Allah Almighty, we have all gathered here to celebrate the birth anniversary of the Holy Prophet. MLA Amin Patel said that you (PBUH) have come to this earth as a mercy for the worlds and we, the lovers of the Holy Prophet (PBUH), celebrate his birth anniversary. Member of Assembly Manoj Jamsatkar said that the Khilafat Committee is of historical importance and the procession of Milad is taken out from here. You (PBUH) have broken the chains of ignorance, oppression and oppression and given a new life to humanity. After the meeting, after the prayers and greetings, the meeting took the form of a procession. In the procession, the leader of the procession, Allama Khaliq Ashraf, Congress leader and MP Imran Parpapgarhi, MP Amin Patel and others rode in an open jeep and led the procession. The procession was given a grand welcome by the Baikla Fruit Market. Before the vehicle of these leaders, a convoy of lovers of the Prophet was playing Naat and Manaqabat of the Prophet of Mercy in a respectful and respectful manner, which was very unique. The procession also included tableaux of the holy place, in which the attractions of Medina and Mecca were also included on trucks. In view of Eid Milad-un-Nabi, the police had also made strict security arrangements. Additional Commissioner Central Region Vikram Di Mane, along with the procession staff, was on duty to provide security for the procession. No untoward incident of any kind was reported during the procession and the procession ended peacefully.

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Maharashtra

Shiv Sena’s ‘Yuva Samvad’ (Youth Dialogue) in Andheri

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Mumbai: Shiv Sena organised a ‘Yuva Samvad’ (Youth Dialogue) programme in Andheri Assembly constituency, which was enthusiastically attended by a large number of youth. During the event, the youth asked Dr. Shrikant Shinde questions related to education, startups, artificial intelligence (AI), competitive exams, the arts sector, and learning Marathi language. Dr. Shrikant Shinde answered their questions in a pleasant and conversational atmosphere, emphasizing that the youth should not be seen as a mere ‘vote bank’ but through the lens of their future.

The event was organised by Shiv Sena MLA from Andheri, Murji Patel and was attended by Industries Minister Uday Samant, MP Ravinder Waikar and several other Shiv Sena office bearers.

Speaking on the occasion, Murji Patel said that today the youth have high expectations from Shiv Sena. Highlighting the journey of Dr. Shrikant Shinde, he said that the youth are eager to know how Shrikant Shinde overcame difficult circumstances to complete his medical education and achieve success. Marji Patel said that he has vowed to take the party to every home and the work of taking the message of Shiv Sena to every home is underway. He described himself as a grassroots worker, noting that a large number of people who connect with him come from ordinary families and slums. Praising Dr. Shrikant Shinde’s leadership, he remarked that Shinde answers calls from party workers even at 2 am. Uday Samant praised Dr. Shrikant Shinde for his hard work and patriotism. He said Shrikant Shinde completed his medical education with hard work and has a deep sense of patriotism. Referring to ‘Operation Sindhoor’, he said that India gave a befitting reply after the terrorist attack on the country. He said that Shrikant Shinde took the initiative to reveal the truth behind ‘Operation Sindhoor’ to the world.

Jain community should not be seen as just a vote bank

Dr. Shrikant Shinde said that the aim of this programme is to directly interact with the youth. He mentioned that the government listens seriously to any demand of the Jain community and pays attention to them.

He remarked that while some people see the Jain community as just a vote bank and exploit them politically, this is not the intention of the government. Stressing on the need to talk about the future of the youth, he said that this dialogue should be a two-way process rather than a one-sided one. It is very important to understand what the youth want for their future.

Questions related to online education and competitive exams
Raising the issue of high fees for online classes, the youth asked what the government can do for economically backward students. A student suggested starting online classes for competitive exam preparation so that students from financially weaker backgrounds can prepare without having to rely on expensive coaching.

Acknowledging the importance of this suggestion, Dr. Shrikant Shinde noted that such classes have already been started in some places. He said that efforts will be made to start similar classes in every assembly constituency after consulting all stakeholders. Youth enthusiasm for startups and AI
The youth also asked questions about starting a business and the use of AI. In response, Shrikant Shinde said that Maharashtra is at the forefront of the country in the startup sector. He added that the government has made a policy on AI and is working to prepare the youth for new opportunities in this sector.

Recognition of artists
A student stressed on increasing employment and income opportunities for artists. The student said that just as doctors and engineers command respect in the society, artists also deserve recognition and respect. Responding to this, Dr. Shrikant Shinde said that the suggestion will definitely be considered. He stressed the need to work to ensure better opportunities and respect for artists.

UP youth ask: How can we learn Marathi?
During the event, a student from Uttar Pradesh expressed his desire to learn Marathi and asked if arrangements could be made to teach it. Shrikant Shinde said that efforts are already underway to teach Marathi to auto-rickshaw drivers and similar initiatives will be tried for the youth soon.
Judge for yourself the pre-2014 and post-2014 periods
Dispelling concerns that some individuals are misleading the youth, Shrikant Shinde said that this is debatable. He said that while some people try to spread misinformation, the youth are sensible and intelligent.

He urged the youth to seek information for themselves instead of blindly believing what others say. He suggested that they compare the period before 2014 with the period after. By comparing the two, they themselves will be able to distinguish between right and wrong.
The Shiv Sena has established a direct connection with the youth through the ‘Yuva Samvad’ (Youth Dialogue) programme.

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Maharashtra

Eid Milad-un-Nabi 2026: Festival celebrated with grand festivities in Mumbai; CM Fadnavis and other leaders extended their greetings.

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On the occasion of Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi on Wednesday, members of the Muslim community in Mumbai offered prayers and sought special blessings at various locations across the city, including the Minara Masjid.

Highlighting the significance of this auspicious day, a local resident said, “This is a day of Allah’s mercy and blessings. May Allah Almighty remove all our troubles on this holy day. May He keep the entire Muslim community under His protection and keep the city of Mumbai safe. May Allah grant us the opportunity to witness this blessed day again and again. Prominent figures and celebrities are expected to visit throughout the day. Food will be distributed among the people, and processions as well as various other programs will be organized.”

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis extended his greetings to the people of the state on the occasion of Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also conveyed his best wishes to the people on this occasion. He wrote on X (formerly Twitter), “Greetings on Milad-un-Nabi. I hope this occasion further enhances unity and happiness among us. May the spirit of compassion and service to society continue to guide us.”

Congress MP and Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi also extended his greetings via X. He wished everyone “peace, happiness, prosperity, and good health.”

On the occasion of Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi, various dargahs (shrines) in Mumbai have been adorned with attractive lights and decorations, creating a festive atmosphere across the city. Images and videos from Mumbai’s Mahim Dargah showed the shrine illuminated with colorful lights, with a large number of pilgrims and devotees arriving to offer prayers and worship.

Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi, also known as Mawlid, is celebrated to commemorate the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad. Traditionally, this occasion is observed on the 12th day of Rabi-ul-Awwal, the third month of the Islamic lunar calendar.

On this day, the Muslim community across the world reflects upon the life, teachings, and message of Prophet Muhammad. During this time, special emphasis is placed on values ​​such as compassion, humanity, justice, and mutual brotherhood.

A holiday has been declared in schools and colleges across Maharashtra on the occasion of Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi. Meanwhile, banks and many offices also remained closed, allowing people to celebrate this holy occasion with religious fervor and reverence.

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