In a major step toward empowering women, Mohan Charan Majhi, the Chief Minister of Odisha, announced the transfer of more than ₹5,100 crore to over 1.02 crore women under the state’s flagship Subhadra Yojana.
The financial assistance was released on International Women’s Day, making the occasion even more meaningful for women across the state.
The Chief Minister handed over the fourth instalment of the scheme during a special event held in Puri, while several ministers joined the programme virtually from different districts.
What the Beneficiaries Received
Under the latest instalment:
-
₹5,000 was transferred directly to each beneficiary’s bank account
-
More than 1.02 crore women received the benefit
-
The total amount distributed crossed ₹5,100 crore
This is the fourth payment under the scheme. With each instalment worth ₹5,000, every beneficiary has now received ₹20,000 in total.
So far, the Odisha government has transferred over ₹15,000 crore to women through this scheme.
A Scheme Designed to Empower Women
The Subhadra Yojana was launched with the goal of helping women become more financially independent and confident in managing their household and personal needs.
Speaking at the event, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said the scheme is already making a difference in the lives of women across the state. According to him, the financial support is helping women build a stronger identity in society and become more self-reliant.
He added that empowering women is essential for building a prosperous and developed Odisha.
How the Scheme Helps Families and Communities
Beyond financial support, the scheme is expected to bring several long-term benefits.
1. Financial Security
For many women, especially in rural areas, the money provides support for household expenses, children’s education, or small personal investments.
2. Strengthening the Rural Economy
When millions of women receive money directly, it increases spending in local markets and supports small businesses.
3. Social Confidence
Financial independence often gives women more confidence and a stronger voice in family and community decisions.
4. Transparent Transfers
The funds are transferred directly into bank accounts through the Direct Benefit Transfer system, ensuring transparency and reducing middlemen.
A Step Toward a “Viksit Odisha”
With more than one crore beneficiaries, Subhadra Yojana has become one of the largest women-focused welfare initiatives in the state.
The government believes that when women become financially strong, the benefits extend to families, communities, and the overall economy.
As Odisha continues to invest in such initiatives, programmes like Subhadra Yojana could play a key role in shaping a stronger, more inclusive, and economically empowered future for the state.