State minister and Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Shirsat on Monday said the monthly financial assistance under the Ladki Bahin Yojana cannot be raised to Rs 2100 as promised by the Mahayuti alliance before the Assembly polls, given the severe financial stress caused by the scheme. Noting that the scheme had shaped the BJP-led alliance’s victory in the 2024 Assembly polls, the social justice minister stressed the government would ensure that the welfare scheme continue even if it meant taking a loan to fulfil the commitment.

“It is a reality that the monthly amount of Rs 1500 cannot be raised to Rs 2100. But people make an issue out of it saying the scheme will be ended or the amount will be slashed. The commitment under the Ladki Bahin Scheme will be fulfilled,” Shirsat said. Under the Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana, eligible women who meet the annual income criterion are provided Rs 1500 every month.