The cost of the Madhya Pradesh government’s flagship women welfare scheme, ‘Ladli Behna’, has been steadily increasing, putting growing pressure on the state’s finances. Under this scheme, eligible women receive monthly financial assistance, but the expanding expenditure has sparked concerns over the state’s financial stability.
Expansion of the Ladli Behna Scheme
When the scheme was launched, beneficiaries received ₹1,000 per month. The amount was later increased to ₹1,250 and then to ₹1,500. With each increase, the financial burden on the state government has grown significantly. Estimates suggest that the scheme now requires thousands of crores of rupees annually.
At present, around 12.7 million women are benefiting from the scheme. The government has stated that the addition of new beneficiaries has been paused, and the existing list is being reviewed to ensure eligibility.
Rapid Rise in State Debt
During the financial year 2025–26, Madhya Pradesh operated with a budget running into several lakh crore rupees. In the same period, the state took substantial loans, pushing its total debt to record highs. Over the past few years, the state’s overall debt has nearly doubled.
Financial experts warn that a continuously rising debt combined with the high cost of welfare schemes could pose long-term challenges to the state’s economic stability.
Opposition’s Response
Opposition parties have criticized the government, arguing that expanding welfare schemes without strong revenue support may strain the state’s economy in the future. They caution that the financial burden could eventually fall on the general public.
The state government, however, maintains that the Ladli Behna scheme is aimed at empowering women financially and strengthening social welfare. Officials have also assured that efforts are being made to maintain fiscal discipline while continuing welfare initiatives