Maharashtra govt to disburse grants through biometric system

Maharashtra government would disburse grants of various state-sponsored financial assistance schemes through biometric system from May 1.
   
The scheme would be launched on Maharashtra Day by chief minister Prithviraj Chavan, at Bhiwandi village in adjoining Thane district, Llbour minister Hasan Mushrif said here.
   
Grants would be disbursed to beneficiaries of the schemes through biometric system, which will be implemented initially in the three districts - Thane, Kolhapur and Beed - as pilot project.
   
The Central and State governments have launched several financial assistance schemes such as Sanjay Gandhi Niradhar Yojna, Indira Gandhi Vruddha Bhumiheen Shetmajoor Anudan Yojna and National Maternity Benefit Scheme.
   
Maharashtra government disburses around Rs1,300 crore every year under various welfare schemes. Currently, funds under these schemes are disbursed through post offices or co-operative banks. The beneficiaries were facing difficulties in accessing their branches, which are mostly situated in talukas.
   
The beneficiaries would be provided smart cards, which will be based on biometric system, to withdraw the funds.