Mahila Samman Yojana: Arvind Kejriwal announces Rs 2,100 per month for women after Delhi elections

Aam Aadmi Party chief Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday announced that the Delhi Cabinet has approved a plan to provide qualified women Rs 2,100 per month, more than double the Rs 1,000 initially allocated under the "Mahila Samman Yojana" in the Budget 2024–2025.

According to Kejriwal, women can start applying for the benefits starting Friday after the Delhi Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Atishi, accepted the plan. He did, however, clarify that because of the approaching elections, beneficiaries would not receive their money until after the votes.

“This scheme is for empowering women and addressing their financial needs. While the BJP calls it free ‘revdis,’ I see it as a step towards strengthening our society,” Kejriwal said during the announcement.

A budget of Rs 2,000 crore was allocated for the initiative, which was first presented in the 2024–25 budget. Kejriwal underlined that his dedication to this new plan is supported by his government's history of keeping its commitments, including providing free power.

Kejriwal encouraged women to back the AAP in gaining a solid mandate, expressing optimism in his party's prospects in the 2025 elections. 

“If all women work together, we will secure more than 60 seats,” he said. He further added, “The BJP asks from where the money will come, but I said we will give free electricity, and we did it. I want to tell the BJP that I am a magician; I am a magician of accounts.”

In preparation for the February 2025 assembly elections in Delhi, the AAP is presenting itself as a party that supports women and welfare. Kejriwal's declaration represents a calculated attempt to increase support from female voters, a significant portion of Delhi's electorate.

Both the Congress and the BJP are challenging the ruling AAP, accusing it of engaging in "populist measures" in the run-up to polls and criticising its governance.