Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced the 'Ladla Bhai Yojana' for boys in the state after announcing the 'Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana' for girls. The latter aims to provide monthly financial assistance of ₹1,500 to eligible women.
Speaking in Maharashtra's Pandharpur on the occasion of Ashadhi Ekadashi, Shinde reportedly said the state government does not differentiate between boys and girls and that the 'Ladla Bhai Yojana' scheme will solve the unemployment issue.
The Ladla Bhai Yojana is for youths in Maharashtra who have passed the 12th grade. According to Jagran Josh, the stipend amount will vary based on the beneficiaries' qualifications, as stated by an official from the Department of Skills, Employment, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation.
Under this scheme, students who have completed their 12th grade will receive ₹6,000 per month. Meanwhile, students holding a diploma will receive ₹8,000 per month, while those who have graduated will be given ₹10,000 per month.
Besides, according to India TV, the youth will also be given an opportunity to undergo a one-year apprenticeship in a factory, "gaining valuable work experience that will help them secure jobs based on that experience".
As per the report, CM Shinde said that this scheme aims to prepare a skilled workforce. He emphasised that this is the first time in history that any government has introduced such a scheme, the Free Press Journal reported.
Shinde's announcement came just ahead of the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections later this year.
Under the Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana, eligible women in the age group of 21 to 60 years will get a monthly allowance of ₹1,500.
The scheme is aimed at ensuring overall development and empowerment of women, including economic independence, self-reliance, health and nutrition.
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister Ajit Pawar announced while presenting the state budget that ₹46,000 crore will be made available every year for this scheme, which will be implemented in July.
(With inputs from agencies)
