MUMBAI: The Maharashtra government has increased the allowance to be paid to pregnant women from Rs 800 to Rs 2,000. Also instead of for one month, the amount will be paid for two months. Thus each woman will be entitled to Rs 4,000.
The scheme has been underway in 125 talukas of 22 backward districts of the state since July 2011. It is part of its project to improve the Human Development Index in these districts. The earlier amount of Rs 800 was being paid to a pregnant woman from the Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribe and those belonging to Below Poverty Line in lieu of loss of livelihood.
During the last winter session it was decided to not only enhance the amount to Rs 2,000 but also to pay it for a month before delivery and for a month after delivery. A Government Resolution to that effect was issued on February 17.