Maharashtra Food and Civil Supplies Minister Chhagan Bhujbal has raised alarm over rampant irregularities in the state-run Shiv Bhojan scheme, warning that the government may be forced to shut it down if corrective measures aren’t taken immediately.
Meal Quotas Not Being Met at Several Centers
Speaking to reporters, Bhujbal said that many designated centers were failing to meet the daily quota of 100 meals under the scheme. “Some are not serving any meals at all,” he noted, urging officials to fix the loopholes or risk closure of the initiative.
Cement Sacks Instead of Kitchens at Some Centers
Bhujbal shared shocking details about centers fraudulently claiming government funds. At one such location, the site was being used to store cement sacks, with no kitchen or meals being served—yet the owner was still receiving full government payments.
Shiv Bhojan Scheme: A Welfare Lifeline Under Threat
Launched in 2020 by the MVA government and continued by the current Mahayuti regime, the Shiv Bhojan scheme offers subsidized meals to nearly two lakh people across Maharashtra every day. It was intended to provide affordable food to the underprivileged.
Pending Payments Adding to Scheme’s Woes
Bhujbal also highlighted that payments to several genuine centers have been pending for over six months, severely affecting operations and demotivating legitimate service providers. “The work process has deteriorated to a shocking level,” he admitted.
Broader Pattern of Welfare Misuse in Focus
Bhujbal’s remarks follow closely on the heels of another welfare scheme controversy. Earlier this week, Women and Child Development Minister Aditi Tatkare revealed that 26.34 lakh ineligible beneficiaries were drawing funds under the Ladki Bahin Yojana.
