India, April 25 -- In a move to simplify access to welfare schemes and cut down on paperwork, the Maharashtra government is set to launch 'MahaSarathi', a unified citizen database, likely on May 1. The Aadhaar-linked platform is designed to ensure benefits reach the right people while preventing misuse of government funds.

Earlier known as 'Golden Data,' the database aims to significantly improve the delivery of welfare benefits by integrating all state and central government schemes. Chief Secretary Rajesh Aggarwal reviewed the project following a cabinet meeting and confirmed that the system is ready for operations.

Citizens will need to register once, create a MahaID and upload documents. Once verified and linked with Aadhaar, their ...