Maharashtra Budget Faces Fiscal Pressure from Rising Subsidies and Debt

Maharashtra faces fiscal challenges as rising cash subsidies, including the Ladki Bahin scheme, and mounting power-sector debt strain the state's budget. The 2025-26 budget projects a fiscal deficit of Rs 1.36 lakh crore and significant revenue expenditures on subsidies and free electricity for farmers. To address funding gaps, departments plan to raise loans and monetize assets, while stalled projects await central funding. Officials acknowledge financial pressures amid expanding welfare commitments and infrastructure needs.