In a strategic move ahead of the Delhi Assembly elections, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has unveiled the Mukhya Mantri Mahila Samman Yojana, promising to increase financial assistance for eligible women from ₹1,000 to ₹2,100 per month post-elections. This initiative, aimed at empowering women financially, was announced at an event with a large gathering of AAP’s women supporters. The scheme, which mirrors successful programs in other states like Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, will begin registration on December 13, 2024, with a focus on women aged 18 and above who do not pay taxes or receive government pension.
Key Details of Mukhya Mantri Mahila Samman Yojana:
- Registration Begins: December 13, 2024.
- Eligibility: Women aged 18 and above, not employed in government jobs, and not paying GST or income tax.
- Financial Aid: ₹2,100 per month after elections, increased from the earlier ₹1,000.
- Scheme Objective: To support women with no formal income, enhancing their financial independence.
- Impact on Elections: The AAP sees this as a critical factor in boosting its chances in the upcoming polls, aiming to secure over 60 seats by mobilizing women voters.
Opposition and Criticism
The BJP has raised doubts over the scheme, accusing Kejriwal of repeating unfulfilled promises, citing a similar pledge made in Punjab during the 2022 elections. Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva questioned the feasibility and delivery of such promises, pointing out discrepancies in past electoral pledges.
Past & Present Context
Previously, the Delhi government had introduced several welfare schemes, including free electricity, which Kejriwal claims were successful. This new financial aid initiative follows a pattern of direct welfare measures targeting specific voter groups, similar to the Ladli Behna schemes of BJP in Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, which contributed to electoral victories. The AAP aims to replicate such successes by enhancing its outreach to women, a vital demographic.
Financial Backing and Budget Allocation
The scheme will be funded with an allocation of ₹2,000 crore under the Delhi government’s budget. It is expected to benefit around 45 lakh women, significantly influencing the political landscape in the capital. Kejriwal expressed confidence that the scheme, along with other welfare measures, will ensure AAP’s success in the upcoming assembly elections.
Summary of the news
| Why in News | Key Points |
|---|---|
| Delhi Govt. announced ₹2,100 aid for women under Mukhya Mantri Mahila Samman Yojana ahead of elections. | Scheme Name: Mukhya Mantri Mahila Samman Yojana. Objective: To provide ₹2,100 per month to eligible women in Delhi. Eligibility: Women aged 18 and above, not employed with government, not paying GST or income tax. Budget Allocation: ₹2,000 crore. Expected Beneficiaries: Around 45 lakh women. Launch Date: Registration begins on December 13, 2024. |
| State: Delhi | CM: Arvind Kejriwal, Capital: New Delhi. |
| Opposition: BJP raised doubts about the scheme’s feasibility, citing past unfulfilled promises. | BJP’s Criticism: Questioned why similar schemes were not implemented in Punjab despite prior announcements. |
| Key Feature: The scheme offers ₹2,100 per month to women after elections, raised from ₹1,000. | Scheme Start: Financial aid to begin post-elections after Model Code of Conduct, first installment may be before elections if Code applies. |
| AAP’s Strategy: Scheme aims to boost electoral support from women voters. | Chief Minister Atishi: Announced the scheme details along with Arvind Kejriwal. |
| Comparison: Similar to Ladli Behna schemes in Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. | Scheme Impact: Expected to boost AAP’s chances in Delhi elections. |
| Political Context: AAP’s attempt to replicate success from other states through targeted welfare measures. | Election Timeline: Delhi Assembly elections due in February 2024. |
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