Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has made a firm commitment to revive a key youth training and stipend initiative, addressing concerns over its implementation while staunchly defending his government's flagship welfare program for women. Speaking at an election rally in Anjangaon Surji on Thursday, Shinde outlined his vision for youth employment and took sharp aim at the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance.
Shinde's Dual Focus: Ladki Bahin and Ladka Bhau
Addressing a gathering after a road show, Shinde placed the Majhi Ladki Bahin scheme at the pinnacle of his political achievements. He stated that while he has served as both Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister, the recognition as the 'Bhau' who started the Ladki Bahin scheme holds paramount importance for him. "No one can stop the Ladki Bahin scheme. The government is committed to keeping it going," he asserted.
Simultaneously, he turned his attention to the younger male demographic, referencing the Ladka Bhau Yojana. Shinde acknowledged that the youth training and stipend scheme had encountered operational hurdles. "The scheme faced some difficulty, but the issue will be resolved and the training will be restarted, providing work to the unemployed youth," he promised, emphasizing the critical need to generate employment for the state's youngsters.
Election Pitch and Criticism of MVA
The rally was part of the campaign for Shiv Sena (Shinde) candidates in the upcoming Anjangaon municipal council elections. Prominent leaders, including former MP Anandrao Adsul and former MLA Abhijit Adsul, were present on the occasion.
In his speech, Shinde launched a vigorous attack on the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi coalition. He claimed the alliance was invisible in the current election campaign and had already "accepted defeat." "One has to remain amid people, visit farmers in their fields. Politics cannot be done sitting at home," Shinde remarked. He urged supporters to ensure a comprehensive victory, stating, "Time has come to defeat the opponents and make them forfeit their deposits in this election."
A Promise of Development and Inclusive Growth
Positioning himself as a leader of the common people, Shinde recounted his humble beginnings. "I was not born with a golden spoon. But I would bring golden days for the common people. For me, people matter more than earning wealth," he said.
He painted a picture of a unified society driving the party's success. "Ladki Bahin, Ladka Bhau, Ladka Putanya, Ladka Farmer – if all come together, Shiv Sena's saffron will fly high," Shinde proclaimed. To address local issues, he assured the audience of bringing agro-based industries to the Anjangaon Surji area and implementing a dedicated drinking water scheme.
The Deputy Chief Minister's address clearly aimed to consolidate support by reaffirming commitment to popular welfare schemes, addressing gaps in youth outreach, and promising tangible local development, all while positioning the opposition as out of touch with the electorate.
