The governing BJP-Sena combine has resorted to social engineering in its additional Budget while paying special attention to the other backward castes, in a clear attempt to appease various communities ahead of the state elections.
The state has made a provision of Rs 200 crore for the Maharashtra State Other Backward Classes Finance and Development Cooperation. Besides, it has approved a plan to start 18 boys' hostels and an equal number of hostels for girls for OBC students across the state.
"A scholarship scheme will be started for OBC girls in the name of Krantijyoti Savitribai Phule. Under this scheme, Rs 60 per month per girl studying in standard of 5th to 7th and Rs 100 per girl studying in 8th to 10th standards will be given. In Maharashtra, a total 2.20 lakh OBC category girls will benefit from this scheme through Direct Benefit Transfer," said Finance Minister Sudhir Mungantiwar on Tuesday.