Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Shiv Sena head Eknath Shinde has reaffirmed the continuation of the government's flagship Ladki Bahin Yojana, dismissing rumours of its closure and crediting its beneficiaries for the Mahayuti's electoral success, reported news agency PTI.

Shinde was speaking after more than 100 activists, office-bearers, and former corporators from Kalyan-Dombivli, including members of the rival Shiv Sena (UBT) faction, joined his party at an event in Thane late Sunday night.