Opinion: Is Mohan Yadav’s Government Erasing Shivraj Singh Chouhan’s Legacy? Name Changes Signal a Shift in MP

Bhopal: In Madhya Pradesh, discussions have begun over the possible renaming of the popular Ladli Behna Yojna, sparking speculation about whether Chief Minister Mohan Yadav is attempting to erase the imprint of former CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan. Since assuming office, the Mohan government has already altered several programs launched under Chouhan’s tenure, raising questions about the continuity of legacy policies.

Ladli Behna Yojna: From Shivraj to Mohan

The Ladli Behna Yojna was launched by Shivraj Singh Chouhan ahead of the 2023 Madhya Pradesh Assembly elections. Under the scheme, eligible women initially received ₹1,000 per month, which was later increased to ₹1,250 as elections approached. While the BJP secured a decisive victory, Shivraj Singh Chouhan did not retain the CM position, and Mohan Yadav took over. Since then, women beneficiaries continued to receive ₹1,250 per month. Currently, Madhya Pradesh has 1.26 crore Ladli Behna beneficiaries.

Under Mohan Yadav, the scheme’s first financial revision was announced recently. Starting 12 November, beneficiaries will receive ₹1,500 per month, with CM Yadav scheduled to transfer the funds from Seoni.

Renaming Discussions

Alongside the increase in aid, speculation has emerged that the government may rename the scheme as ‘Devi Subhadra Yojna’. While officials have dismissed some of these rumors, the timing of the announcement has fueled debate.

Reversing Shivraj’s Decisions

Mohan Yadav has also reversed several prominent initiatives and policies from Shivraj Singh Chouhan’s tenure. One of the first decisions was to discontinue the mandatory MP anthem at government programs, stating it should not precede the national anthem. Additionally, the BRTS projects in Bhopal and Indore, built at significant expense, were dismantled months after implementation.

The CM Rise Schools, another signature initiative under Chouhan, were renamed Sandipani Schools. Several other programs and policy decisions from the previous government have also been modified or rolled back.

A Clear Intent to Establish a New Identity

These moves suggest that CM Mohan Yadav is keen to establish a distinct identity for his government while gradually reducing Shivraj Singh Chouhan’s visible influence in Madhya Pradesh. Chouhan, having shifted focus to national politics, now spends limited time in the state, mainly attending to his constituency. Through renaming schemes, revising policies, and initiating new programs, Mohan Yadav appears determined to leave his own imprint on MP’s governance landscape.