Delhi launches Rs 2,500 monthly cash transfer for women

The Delhi Chief Minister on August 1 launched the Lakshmi Yojana, providing eligible women with an unconditional cash transfer of Rs 2,500 per month. The scheme fulfills a key promise from the ruling party's Assembly election campaign, making Delhi the latest state or union territory to introduce such a programme.

The Hindu reports that the Economic Survey and the 16th Finance Commission have raised concerns about the rising fiscal burden of these schemes. In Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh, the number of beneficiaries has been reduced through rationalisation, according to recent reports.