'Gruha Lakshmi' and 'Gruha Jyoti' schemes will not be discontinued, says CM Shivakumar; find out what these schemes are..

The Congress government in Karnataka has decided to invite fresh applications for the ‘Gruha Lakshmi’ and ‘Gruha Jyothi’ guarantee schemes. Following this, opposition parties—the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Janata Dal (Secular)—alleged that the state government is imposing conditions on beneficiaries and attempting to curtail the scope of these schemes. In response, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar clarified that the state government would not discontinue the ‘Gruha Lakshmi’ and ‘Gruha Jyothi’ schemes. He stated that the ongoing process aims solely to ensure that the benefits of these schemes reach only genuine beneficiaries.

What is the Gruha Lakshmi Scheme?
Launched by the Karnataka government's Department of Women and Child Development, the Gruha Lakshmi Scheme aims to empower female heads of households by providing them with financial assistance. Under this scheme, female heads of families living below the poverty line receive financial aid of ₹2,000 per month.

What is the Gruha Jyothi Scheme?
The Karnataka government’s Gruha Jyothi Scheme is a major public welfare initiative that provides up to 200 units of free electricity per month to eligible domestic consumers. It is one of the Congress government's five guarantee schemes and has been in effect since August 1, 2023, providing relief to state residents regarding electricity bills.

What did Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar say?
Speaking to the media in Bengaluru, Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar accused the opposition of spreading misinformation about the guarantee schemes. He stated that the government is streamlining beneficiary data to prevent the misuse and diversion of funds. Shivakumar said, "We are not going to stop the guarantee schemes under any circumstances; we have no such intention." He explained that the government is seeking updated photographs, identity details, and other records because instances had come to light where ‘Gruha Lakshmi’ funds were being transferred to incorrect accounts due to erroneous information provided by beneficiaries.

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