The Ladli Behna Yojana is a transformative financial aid initiative introduced by the Madhya Pradesh government in May 2023. The scheme is aimed at enhancing the economic security and social well-being of married women, widows, and divorcees between 21 and 60 years old who belong to economically disadvantaged families. By providing direct financial assistance, the initiative supports women’s financial independence and contributes to the overall development of their households.
This guide explores the scheme’s latest updates, key features, benefits, eligibility criteria, necessary documentation, and the impact it has created on women’s lives.
Latest Update: 21st Installment Release Date
As of January 2025, the Ladli Behna Yojana has successfully completed 20 installment disbursements, positively impacting millions of women across Madhya Pradesh. The 21st installment is scheduled for release in the first week of February 2025, with the funds expected to be transferred between February 5-12, 2025. More than 1.26 crore women will continue to receive financial assistance, further strengthening their financial stability and independence.
Key Details of Ladli Behna Yojana
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Ladli Behna Yojana |
| Initiated By | Government of Madhya Pradesh |
| Launch Date | May 2023 |
| Target Beneficiaries | Married women, widows, and divorcees aged 21-60 years |
| Monthly Financial Assistance | ₹1,250 per month (₹15,000 annually) |
| Eligibility Criteria | Annual family income below ₹2.5 lakh; No government job in the family |
| Total Beneficiaries | Over 1.26 crore women |
| Upcoming Installment Date | February 5-12, 2025 |
Key Features of the Ladli Behna Yojana
1. Monthly Financial Assistance
Each eligible woman receives a fixed sum of ₹1,250 per month, ensuring a stable source of income to cover daily expenses, children’s education, healthcare, and other necessities.
2. Inclusive and Non-Discriminatory Approach
The scheme is accessible to women across all religions, castes, and communities, ensuring fair and equitable financial support for all eligible individuals.
3. Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) for Transparency
The government uses the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system, allowing the funds to be directly credited into the beneficiaries’ bank accounts. This mechanism reduces delays, eliminates middlemen, and prevents corruption.
4. Economic and Social Empowerment
By providing women with financial autonomy, the scheme enables them to actively participate in household decision-making, reducing dependency on male family members.
5. Bridging Economic Disparities
The initiative primarily targets women from low-income families, helping to reduce economic inequality and uplift financially vulnerable sections of society.
Benefits of the Ladli Behna Yojana
- Financial Security: The monthly financial aid helps women manage essential expenses, ensuring a more stable and secure lifestyle.
- Enhanced Social Status: Women gain confidence and a stronger position in family and community decisions.
- Support for Widows and Divorcees: Special attention is given to women who have lost their spouses or are separated, ensuring they receive necessary financial assistance.
- Improved Living Standards: With better financial support, beneficiaries can afford improved healthcare, education, and nutrition for their families.
- Encouragement for Self-Reliance: The scheme instills financial independence and self-sufficiency among women, reducing reliance on external support.
Eligibility Criteria for Ladli Behna Yojana
To qualify for financial aid under this scheme, applicants must meet the following conditions:
Must be a permanent resident of Madhya Pradesh.
Must be married, widowed, or divorced.
Age should be between 21 and 60 years as of January 1 of the application year.
Annual family income should be less than ₹2.5 lakh.
No family member should be employed in a government job or be a taxpayer.
Required Documents for Registration
To apply for the Ladli Behna Yojana, beneficiaries must provide the following documents:
Aadhaar Card (Identity verification)
Ration Card (Proof of income)
Samagra ID (Mandatory for MP residents)
Proof of Residency (Utility bill, voter ID, etc.)
Income Certificate (Issued by a competent authority)
Bank Account Details (Linked with Aadhaar for DBT)
Recent Passport-Size Photograph
Marriage/Divorce/Destitution Certificate (If applicable)
How to Check the 21st Installment Status?
To track the status of the upcoming installment, follow these steps:
- Visit the official Ladli Behna Yojana website.
- Navigate to the “Application & Payment Status” section.
- Enter your Registration Number and Samagra ID.
- Complete the CAPTCHA verification and submit the form.
- Verify your identity through the OTP sent to your registered mobile number.
- The installment status will be displayed on the screen.
Challenges Faced by Beneficiaries
Despite its success, the scheme faces several challenges:
Delayed Payments: Technical issues and incomplete documentation may lead to delays in fund transfers.
Lack of Awareness: Many eligible women, especially in rural areas, remain unaware of their entitlements and the application process.
Limited Digital Access: Beneficiaries in remote locations often struggle to check their installment status due to poor internet connectivity.
Suggestions for Beneficiaries
Keep bank details updated to avoid transaction failures.
Follow official government sources for the latest updates.
Seek assistance from local government offices in case of payment delays or discrepancies.
Impact of the Ladli Behna Yojana
Over ₹18,750 crore has been disbursed in 20 installments.
More than 1 crore women benefit from the scheme annually.
Improved access to education and healthcare for children in beneficiary households.
Strengthened financial security and self-reliance among women.
Conclusion
The Ladli Behna Yojana is a groundbreaking initiative designed to promote women’s financial independence and uplift economically weaker sections of society. By providing direct financial aid and ensuring transparency through DBT, the scheme has positively impacted millions of lives. As the government continues to refine and expand the program, it remains a beacon of hope for women seeking financial security and empowerment in Madhya Pradesh.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can women from other states apply for this scheme?
No, only permanent residents of Madhya Pradesh are eligible.
2. What happens if a woman’s income exceeds ₹2.5 lakh after registration?
If a beneficiary’s financial status improves beyond the eligibility limit, they may no longer qualify for future installments.
3. How can a widow or divorcee prove eligibility?
A widow certificate or divorce decree issued by the appropriate authority must be submitted.
4. Is it necessary to have an Aadhaar-linked bank account?
Yes, as payments are made through the DBT system, an Aadhaar-linked bank account is required.
5. Can an unmarried woman apply for this scheme?
No, only married, widowed, or divorced women are eligible for the Ladli Behna Yojana.
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