In a landmark move, the Odisha government has officially launched the Subhadra Yojana, a scheme aimed at empowering women across the state. The announcement was made by Chief Minister Mohan Majhi on August 23, 2024, during a special session of the Odisha Assembly. This initiative is set to provide significant financial assistance to women, enhancing their economic independence and overall well-being.
The Subhadra Yojana, named after the revered figure from Indian mythology, is designed to support women aged between 21 and 60 years. Under this scheme, eligible women will receive a cash voucher worth ₹50,000, which can be encashed over a period of two years. The primary objective is to enable women to meet their essential needs and support their families.
Chief Minister Majhi highlighted the importance of this scheme in his address, stating, “The Subhadra Yojana is a step towards ensuring that the women of Odisha are financially secure and empowered. This initiative will provide them with the necessary resources to improve their quality of life and contribute to the state’s development.”
The scheme will be implemented in phases, with the first phase targeting women in rural areas. The government has set up a dedicated portal for online applications, making the process accessible and transparent. Women can apply for the scheme by submitting the required documents and meeting the eligibility criteria.
One of the key features of the Subhadra Yojana is the direct benefit transfer (DBT) mechanism. The financial assistance will be credited directly to the beneficiaries’ bank accounts in two instalments each year. The first instalment of ₹5,000 will be transferred on Rakhi Purnima, and the second instalment of ₹5,000 on International Women’s Day. This ensures timely and efficient disbursement of funds.
The launch of the Subhadra Yojana has been met with widespread appreciation from various quarters. Women’s rights activists and social organizations have lauded the government’s efforts to address the financial challenges faced by women. They believe that this scheme will play a crucial role in reducing gender disparities and promoting economic equality.
However, some experts have raised concerns about the implementation and monitoring of the scheme. They emphasize the need for robust mechanisms to ensure that the benefits reach the intended recipients without any delays or discrepancies. The government has assured that strict measures will be in place to oversee the execution of the scheme and address any issues promptly.
As the Subhadra Yojana rolls out, it is expected to bring about a positive change in the lives of countless women in Odisha. By providing them with financial support and opportunities for growth, the scheme aims to create a more inclusive and equitable society.