Ladki Bahin Scheme: 'Beneficiaries Could Get Loans For Small Businesses,' Says DyCM Ajit Pawar

Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on Monday said the government will consider introducing loan facilities in connection with the Mazi Ladki Bahin scheme for women.

Pawar, who also holds the finance portfolio, was speaking in the assembly during the discussion on budget 2025-’26.

Under the initiative, women who open an account under the Ladki Bahin scheme will be eligible to receive small business loans ranging from Rs10,000 to Rs25,000 from institutions such as Mumbai Bank, Maharashtra State Women’s Economic Development Corporation, and various cooperative banks.

This will allow the government to go one step further, from providing financial assistance to women to empowering them, helping them set up businesses, the minister claimed.

The move will also help the administration vet beneficiaries eligible under the Ladki Bahin scheme, which currently provides women direct cash benefit of Rs1,500 per month.

Approximately Rs45,000 crore will be transferred to women’s accounts annually through the Ladki Bahin scheme, Pawar said.