Opinion: Is the Mohan Government Erasing Shivraj Singh Chouhan’s Legacy in MP

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Bhopal: The ongoing discussion around the potential renaming of Madhya Pradesh’s flagship Ladli Behna Yojana has sparked wider speculation—is Chief Minister Mohan Yadav gradually erasing the imprint of former CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan? Since taking office, the Mohan government has not only launched new initiatives to establish its identity but has also modified or renamed several programs introduced during Chouhan’s tenure.

Origins of the Scheme
The Ladli Behna Yojana was launched by Shivraj Singh Chouhan ahead of the 2023 Madhya Pradesh Assembly elections. Initially, eligible women received ₹1,000 per month, which was later increased to ₹1,250 as the elections approached. Despite the BJP’s sweeping victory in the elections, Chouhan did not return as Chief Minister. Mohan Yadav assumed office and maintained the monthly disbursement at ₹1,250 for over two years, covering 1.26 crore beneficiaries across the state.

First Major Change Under Mohan Government
For the first time under Mohan Yadav, the scheme has seen a financial enhancement. Starting 12th November, Ladli Behna beneficiaries will receive ₹1,500 per month, with the CM personally overseeing transfers from Seoni. Alongside this increase, speculation has emerged about renaming the scheme—possibly as the Devi Subhadra Yojana—although officials have dismissed these reports.

Rewriting Policies and Reversing Decisions
Since taking office, CM Mohan Yadav has reversed several initiatives associated with Shivraj Singh Chouhan. For example, Chouhan had mandated the playing of the MP state anthem before official programs, which Mohan Yadav halted, stating that it should not overshadow the national anthem. Similarly, BRTS projects in Bhopal and Indore, constructed at considerable cost, were dismantled. The CM also renamed the CM Rise Schools, another signature program from Chouhan’s tenure, to Sandipani Schools, and has made other similar policy reversals.

A New Identity for the State Government
These actions indicate a clear intent by CM Mohan Yadav to establish a distinct identity for his government while gradually phasing out Shivraj Singh Chouhan’s mark in the state. Although Chouhan has shifted focus to national politics, his presence in Madhya Pradesh has diminished, giving the current administration the space to reshape priorities and assert its own legacy.