Delhi Lakshmi Yojana 2026: Launch Date, Eligibility, Restrictions & Duration

• 29 Jul 2026
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After several months of anticipation, the much awaited Delhi Lakshmi Yojana 2026 has finally received the greenlight. On 28 July 2026, the Delhi government approved this scheme and fulfilled one of the main promises made during Assembly elections. Under this latest central government scheme, eligible women from the Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) will receive financial assistance of Rs. 2,500 per month. The scheme will be launched on 28 August 2026.

Unlike similar schemes introduced in several other states, the Delhi Lakshmi Yojana includes specific provisions governing eligibility, ineligibility, and the permitted use of the funds. According to government officials, the scheme is expected to benefit approximately 1.7 million women in Delhi. In the 2026-27 budget, the government has allocated Rs. 5,110 crore for the Delhi Lakshmi Scheme. 

Who is Eligible for Delhi Lakshmi Yojana 2026?

Women who fulfill the following eligibility conditions are eligible for the scheme:-

• They must be between 21 to 60 years of age.

• Their family’s annual income must be up to 2.5 lakh. 

• The women must not have more than 3 children. Those women who have more than 3 children are ineligible for Delhi Laxmi Scheme. 

How Will Women Receive Financial Assistance under Delhi Lakshmi Yojana?

Under the Delhi Lakshmi Yojana, the monthly financial assistance will not be paid directly as cash to eligible women. Instead, beneficiaries will be able to choose from two options:-

• The entire Rs. 2,500 can be invested in a Recurring Deposit (RD) or Fixed Deposit (FD).

• Alternatively, Rs. 1,500 can be deposited into an RD or FD while the remaining Rs. 1,000 will be credited to a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) wallet for everyday use.

The objective of this scheme is not merely to provide financial support but also to encourage women to develop the habit of saving and promote use of digital payments.

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced the scheme after a Cabinet meeting. She said:

According to the Chief Minister, the registration portal for the scheme will be launched on August 1. 

The government aims to release the first installment to eligible beneficiaries on August 28. This date coincides with Raksha Bandhan, a festival celebrating the bond between brothers and sisters. According to the Chief Minister, this scheme will open a new chapter of self-reliance for millions of women. The Delhi government has delivered on this major promise to women just over a year after assuming office. 

Restrictions on Fund Usage 

According to government officials, the Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) wallet has been designed to ensure that government financial assistance is used for household needs and other legitimate purposes, rather than on socially undesirable activities. To support this objective, the wallet will feature a "negative list" that automatically blocks payments for specified categories of goods and services. 

According to the guidelines of the scheme, the amount available in the CBDC wallet cannot be used to purchase the following:-

• Alcohol and other alcoholic beverages

• Tobacco products

• Narcotic and psychotropic substances

• Lottery tickets

• Gambling and betting services

• Any other goods or services declared prohibited by Central/State Government from time to time

An official stated that these restrictions will be enforced via CBDC platform. If a beneficiary attempts to make a payment to a merchant falling under any of the restricted categories, the transaction will be automatically declined.

However, the CBDC wallet can still be used for everyday household expenses and the purchase of all other legitimate goods and services. This is one of the most distinctive features of the Delhi Lakshmi Yojana as it links government financial assistance with the responsible use of public funds.

Bank Selection and Scheme Duration 

According to Jansatta, the government has shortlisted several banks for the new Delhi Government Scheme 2026. The bank that offers the highest interest rates on RDs and FDs will be selected. Beneficiary accounts will be opened in names of recipients. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced that the scheme will initially be implemented for three years. There is a possibility of amendments and continuation of the scheme based on its effectiveness. 

Additionally, she stated that the entire application process will be conducted online via Delhi Lakshmi Yojana portal. A transparent system has been established at district level for reviewing applications, granting final approvals and promptly addressing any complaints. 

Source: Jansatta