Ladki Bahin instalments: Rs 3,000 before Diwali hinges on Maharashtra cabinet meeting

With Diwali near, lakhs of women beneficiaries in Maharashtra are waiting for the next instalment of the Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin scheme. The question everywhere is when the September and October instalments will reach their accounts. A major and important decision on this is said to be very likely at tomorrow's cabinet meeting.

Under the Maharashtra government's ambitious scheme, eligible women receive financial assistance of Rs 1,500 a month. The August instalment has been paid, but September's has not yet been credited. Women are therefore keen to know whether the September and October instalments will be paid together.

If both months' instalments are paid at once, eligible women could receive a total of Rs 3,000 in their bank accounts. In the festival season, the amount could be a big help for Diwali shopping and household expenses. However, the state government has so far made no official announcement about paying both months together. Whether Rs 3,000 or only September's Rs 1,500 reaches accounts will be clear only after tomorrow's meeting.

There is also talk that if the pending September and October instalments are paid together, women could get a special Rs 3,000 gift on Bhai Dooj. On the other hand, the possibility of September's Rs 1,500 being credited separately cannot be ruled out. Both options are on the table, but everyone is watching what the government finally decides at tomorrow's cabinet meeting.

If the scheme money has not reached your account, first check the current status of your benefit on the official website. Also make sure your e-KYC is complete, check the status of your application, and see whether any new notice from the government or any shortfall remains to be fixed. If there is a problem, use the official options on the portal to file a complaint.

Everyone's problem may differ. Avoid reapplying on the strength of rumours on WhatsApp or other social media, and do not take help from any unauthorised person. If in doubt, contact the concerned government office or the official system directly for correct information.