Odisha’s Subhadra Yojana marks one year with ₹15,000 crore spent, empowering over one crore women with financial aid and self-reliance
OdishaPlus Bureau
Odisha’s flagship welfare initiative, Subhadra Yojana, celebrated its first anniversary, with the state government emphasizing its significance in empowering women and fostering financial independence.
Launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his birthday, 17 September 2024, during his visit to Bhubaneswar, this scheme has become one of Odisha’s most ambitious programs aimed at women.
According to official statistics, the government has allocated Rs 15,000 crore over the past year in three installments, directly benefiting nearly one crore women throughout the state. Each eligible woman receives Rs 10,000 annually, distributed in two equal installments of Rs 5,000 on Raksha Bandhan and International Women’s Day, ensuring transparency and timely delivery.
Odisha Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, who leads the Subhadra Yojana, praised it as the largest women-focused empowerment initiative launched since the BJP government took office in Odisha.
“The program is structured not only to offer financial assistance but also to enhance the economic standing of women and promote self-sufficiency,” stated Parida. The initiative has gained momentum in both urban and rural settings, with recipients indicating increased financial independence and improved access to resources for household and business purposes.
On the first anniversary of the program, the Odisha government reiterated its dedication to broadening women’s empowerment initiatives and promoting inclusive economic development. Development activists observed that Subhadra Yojana could act as a benchmark for other states seeking to merge direct financial aid with socio-economic advancement.
“Odisha’s Subhadra Yojana has undoubtedly empowered over one crore women. Many have utilized the funds to initiate economic ventures, while others have depended on the support to fulfill necessities,” remarked a development activist.