Odisha Government Tests Fund Transfer for Subhadra Yojana

The government of Odisha, in an effort to ensure the smooth implementation of the Subhadra Yojana, conducted a test transaction by transferring Re 1 into the bank accounts of over 32 lakh beneficiaries. This action was a preparatory measure ahead of the second phase of the first installment release, set to occur on October 9.

Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida confirmed that over 1 crore individuals have registered for the Subhadra scheme to date. “This is no small achievement,” Parida remarked, highlighting the successful enrollment figures. She also mentioned ongoing efforts to waive interest on loans provided to self-help groups, totaling Rs 200 crore.

Chief Minister Mohan Majhi is scheduled to disperse the first installment of Rs 5,000 under this scheme to over 35 lakh beneficiaries in an event in Baripada on Wednesday. The Subhadra Yojana, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 17 in Bhubaneswar, seeks to provide financial assistance to women between the ages of 21 and 60 by offering Rs 10,000 annually, split into two disbursements.

The financial aid will be distributed biannually on Raksha Bandhan and International Women’s Day. To support this initiative, a considerable budget allocation of Rs. 10,000 crore has been made for the fiscal year 2024-25. The scheme specifically targets women with an annual income of less than Rs 1800, aiming to empower them economically.

Subhadra Yojana is anticipated to significantly impact the socio-economic landscape in Odisha, aligning with other welfare programs and promoting women’s empowerment throughout the state. Social activists regard this scheme as a substantial complement to existing initiatives, focusing on the long-term empowerment and economic independence of women in Odisha.