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Impact of the Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana on Voter Support in Maharashtra: A Study
Keywords:
Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana, Welfare Policy, Women Empowerment, Voter Behavior, MaharashtraAbstract
In India, social welfare schemes play a significant role not only in promoting socio-economic development but also in influencing the political attitudes and voting behavior of citizens. Several studies have shown that both the central and state governments periodically introduce welfare programs aimed at improving the economic conditions of marginalized and underprivileged sections of society. In this context, the Government of Maharashtra launched the Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana in 2024 to promote the economic empowerment of women. Under this scheme, eligible women receive ₹1500 per month as direct financial assistance, which is transferred directly into their bank accounts.
The main objective of this study is to examine the impact of this scheme on the economic condition of women as well as on their political perceptions and voting behavior. For this purpose, a survey was conducted among 200 women from rural and urban areas of Maharashtra. In addition, secondary data were collected from government reports, research articles, and newspaper sources to support the analysis.
The survey findings indicate that 94 percent of the women were aware of the scheme, while 70 percent were receiving its benefits. Moreover, 60 percent of the respondents stated that the scheme created a positive perception of the government. The results of statistical techniques such as Chi-square tests, correlation, and regression analysis show that there is a statistically significant relationship between receiving benefits from the scheme and political support.
The study concludes that direct financial benefit schemes can have a noticeable influence on voter attitudes and electoral behavior. Although voting decisions are influenced by several social, economic, and political factors, welfare schemes that provide direct financial assistance can play an important role in shaping voter preferences.
Keywords: Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana, Welfare Policy, Women Empowerment, Voter Behavior, Maharashtra.
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९. https://ladakibahin.maharashtra.gov.in/
१०. https://pune.gov.in/en/scheme/mukhyamantri-majhi-ladki-bahin-yojana/
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