The Mahayuti government in Maharashtra has deferred its key election promises, including an increase in the stipend under the flagship Mukhya Mantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana from Rs 1,500 to Rs 2,100 per month and a long-promised farm loan waiver.

The delay comes as the state grapples with an unprecedented debt burden and a widening revenue deficit.

Presenting its first budget after securing re-election last November, the BJP-led government, in alliance with the Shiv Sena (Shinde camp) and the NCP (Ajit Pawar faction), projected a record debt of Rs 9.32 lakh crore—the highest in Maharashtra’s history. 
The budget also reflects a revenue deficit of Rs 45,891 crore for the 2025-26 financial year.

A key highlight of the budget was a significant reduction in the allocation for the Mukhya Mantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana, with funds slashed by Rs 10,000 crore compared to last year, according to a report by Business Standard.

However, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis refuted claims of budget cuts for the scheme, assuring that beneficiaries would receive the promised amount.

"We have not decreased the money for 'Ladki Bahin'. Everyone will get their money. The budget has been structured as per the need, and if additional funds are required, we will make provisions for it. We will fulfil our promise of providing Rs 2,100 per month to our sisters," Business Standard quoted Fadnavis as saying.

With financial limitations in mind, the budget does not introduce any major new schemes. Instead, the government has focused on sustaining existing programs while managing debt and the fiscal deficit within regulatory limits.

The district annual plan saw an 11% hike to Rs 20,165 crore, likely in preparation for upcoming local body elections. To boost revenue, the budget proposes new taxes on motor vehicles, estimated to generate Rs 1,125 crore, along with an increase in stamp duty on specific transactions.

Despite concerns over mounting liabilities, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, who also handles the finance portfolio, defended the budget, stating that the debt and fiscal deficit remain within permissible limits. The state’s fiscal deficit is projected at 2.76% of Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP).

While the government insists that its fiscal strategy is under control, the deferment of key poll promises is likely to draw criticism, particularly as Maharashtra heads into crucial local elections later this year.