Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, also handling the finance portfolio, unveiled a series of initiatives during the presentation of the state Budget for 2024-25, ahead of the upcoming state assembly elections likely scheduled for October.
Ajit Pawar introduced a new financial assistance program titled "Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana," aimed at providing a monthly allowance of Rs.1,500 to eligible women aged between 21 and 60 years. This scheme is set to commence from July, with a substantial annual budget allocation of Rs.46,000 crore.
Under the 'Mukhyamantri Annapurna Yojana,' eligible families of five members will receive three free cooking gas cylinders annually, easing the burden of household expenses.
In a boost to agriculture, the government has allocated a Rs.5000 per hectare bonus for cotton and soybean crops across Maharashtra, benefiting farmers directly.
Continuing support for dairy farmers, the government will extend a bonus of Rs.5 per litre on milk production even after July 1, 2024, enhancing income opportunities.
Recognizing the hardships faced by families due to animal attacks, the government has increased compensation to the next of kin from Rs.20 lakhs to Rs.25 lakhs, providing greater financial security.
These announcements underscore Maharashtra's commitment to welfare measures for women, agricultural prosperity, and enhanced social security, reflecting priorities in the upcoming fiscal year.
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, presenting the state Budget for 2024-25 ahead of the upcoming assembly elections, outlined a comprehensive array of welfare measures and developmental initiatives aimed at various sectors across the state.
Women's Welfare Initiatives:
Ajit Pawar introduced the "Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana," a landmark scheme offering a monthly stipend of Rs. 1,500 to eligible women aged 21 to 60 years. This initiative, expected to cost the state Rs. 46,000 crore annually, aims to empower women economically.
Gas Cylinder and Household Support:
As part of the newly announced "CM Anna Suraksha Yojana," the government will provide three free cooking gas cylinders annually to 52.4 lakh households, alleviating financial burdens on families.
Infrastructure and Water Management:
The budget includes provisions for new ambulances and the "Har ghar nal" initiative, focused on providing tap water to 21 lakh households currently in the process of being connected.
Farmers' Support:
In a significant move to support agriculture, the state government announced a subsidy of Rs. 5 per litre for cow milk, benefiting 2.93 lakh cow milk producers starting July 1. Additionally, the "Gaon tethe godown" scheme has been introduced with a Rs. 341 crore budget allocation to improve storage facilities for agricultural produce.
Education and Skill Development:
The budget introduces a fee waiver for girls from OBC and EWS families pursuing higher education, benefiting 2 lakh girls with an annual budget of Rs. 2000 crore. Moreover, the state will launch the "CM Yuva Karya Prashikshan Yojana," a skill development program offering a monthly stipend of Rs. 10,000 to ten lakh youth annually, amounting to Rs. 10,000 crore.
Environment and Agriculture Sustainability:
Maharashtra aims to promote sustainable agriculture by providing free electricity to farmers through the installation of 8.5 lakh solar pumps. The state has allocated Rs. 650 crore for the "Jal Yukta Shivar Yojana," focused on water conservation and management. Additionally, plans are in place to establish a technical textile park to boost the textile industry and to initiate bamboo plantation drives under the Atal scheme.
Support for Minorities and Youth:
The state government plans to launch foreign scholarship schemes for students belonging to minority communities to promote education and international exposure.
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