Special Provisions for Vulnerable Women
Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana gives particular attention to women who face the greatest financial vulnerability — widows, divorced women, and those who have been abandoned by their families or spouses. This article explains how these groups can access the scheme and what additional support may be available to them.
Are Widows Eligible for Ladki Bahin Yojana?
Yes. Widows are fully eligible to apply for Ladki Bahin Yojana provided they meet the other criteria — they must be Maharashtra residents between 21 and 65 years of age, and their annual family income must not exceed ₹2.5 lakh. Widows are actually given priority consideration in several districts during beneficiary verification.
Documents Required for Widows
- Death certificate of husband (issued by municipality or gram panchayat)
- Aadhaar Card
- Income Certificate
- Domicile Certificate
- Bank passbook in the applicant's name
Are Divorced Women Eligible?
Divorced women are also eligible under the scheme. To establish divorced status, the following is required:
- A copy of the divorce decree issued by a family court or competent legal authority
- In the absence of a formal decree, a certificate from the gram panchayat or local administrative authority may be accepted in some cases
What About Abandoned Women?
Women who have been deserted by their spouses but do not have a formal divorce decree are also eligible. They can submit:
- A self-declaration affidavit stating they have been abandoned
- A certificate from the local Sarpanch, Ward Officer, or Gram Panchayat confirming the situation
This provision recognises the social reality that many women in Maharashtra live in difficult family situations without access to formal legal processes.
Can These Women Receive Other Benefits Simultaneously?
Yes — widows who are also receiving the Sanjay Gandhi Niradhar Yojana pension or another widow pension may still be eligible for Ladki Bahin Yojana, provided the total monthly benefit from all schemes combined does not exceed ₹1,500. If they are already receiving ₹1,500 or more through other schemes, they would not be entitled to an additional ₹1,500 under Ladki Bahin Yojana.
How to Apply If You Are a Widow or Divorced Woman
- Visit your nearest Anganwadi Centre or Gram Panchayat with all documents.
- Request the Ladki Bahin Yojana application form.
- Attach your husband's death certificate or divorce decree along with standard documents.
- The Anganwadi Sevika or officer will guide you through completion and submission.
Key Takeaway
The Ladki Bahin Yojana scheme is deliberately inclusive of women facing difficult personal circumstances. If you or someone you know is a widow, divorced, or abandoned woman in Maharashtra, this scheme provides meaningful and direct financial support. Ensure documentation is in order and apply without delay.