Delhi Government to Launch Upgraded Lakhpati Bitya Yojna in April, Replacing 2008 Ladli Scheme
In a significant announcement on Tuesday, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta revealed that her administration will introduce the 'Delhi Lakhpati Bitya Yojna' starting April 1, 2024. This new initiative is designed to completely replace the long-standing Delhi Ladli Scheme, which was originally launched by the Department of Women and Child Development back in 2008.
Transition from Ladli to Lakhpati Bitya Yojna
The Chief Minister emphasized that the upcoming scheme represents a substantial upgrade over the previous framework. "We will launch the upgraded scheme on April 1, and shutdown the old Ladli scheme," stated CM Rekha Gupta during the press briefing. This strategic move aims to modernize and enhance the support system for girl children across the national capital.
Key features of the transition include:
- Complete discontinuation of the 2008 Ladli Scheme effective April 1, 2024.
- Implementation of a more comprehensive financial assistance program under the new banner.
- Enhanced administrative mechanisms to ensure better utilization of allocated funds.
Financial Allocation and Beneficiary Support
The financial implications of this upgraded scheme are substantial, with an estimated implementation cost of approximately Rs 160 crore. Under the new provisions, financial support will be extended to two girls per eligible family, broadening the reach compared to previous limitations.
In a revealing disclosure, Chief Minister Gupta highlighted that upon assuming office, her government discovered significant unutilized funds from the old scheme lying dormant in various bank accounts. "When we came to power, we learnt that funds for this scheme are lying unutilised under the old scheme in banks," she explained.
The administration has successfully identified nearly 41,000 girl beneficiaries who were entitled to these funds but hadn't received them. The government now plans to distribute approximately Rs 100 crore to these identified beneficiaries, ensuring that the intended financial support reaches those who need it most.
Digital Infrastructure and Implementation Timeline
To streamline operations and enhance accessibility, the Delhi government will develop a dedicated digital portal specifically for the Lakhpati Bitya Yojna. This online platform will facilitate:
- Simplified application processes for eligible families.
- Transparent tracking of fund distribution and utilization.
- Efficient management of beneficiary databases and support services.
The portal development is currently underway and is expected to be operational in conjunction with the scheme's April launch. This digital transformation represents a significant leap forward from the previous administration's approach, incorporating technology to minimize bureaucratic hurdles and maximize efficiency.
The Delhi Lakhpati Bitya Yojna marks a pivotal moment in the state's social welfare initiatives, particularly in empowering girl children through structured financial assistance. By addressing the shortcomings of the previous Ladli Scheme and introducing modern digital solutions, the government aims to create a more effective and inclusive support system that truly benefits its intended recipients.
