Odisha Unveils Subhadra Yojana for Women’s Financial Aid

The Odisha government introduced guidelines for Subhadra Yojana, a financial aid scheme pledging Rs 10,000 annually to women in need. Aimed at women aged 21-60, the scheme aligns with BJP's election promises. The plan excludes well-off families and government employees, requiring recipients to have Aadhaar-enabled bank accounts.

The Odisha government on Monday rolled out the comprehensive guidelines for the Subhadra Yojana, a financial aid scheme that promises to provide Rs 10,000 annually to eligible women over a span of five years, disbursed in two equal installments.

Named after Lord Jagannath's sister, the scheme was among the key promises made by the BJP in their election manifesto, aiding women between the ages of 21 and 60 who are natives of Odisha. The scheme, which excludes well-off families, government employees, and current recipients of substantial government aid, mandates beneficiaries have Aadhaar-enabled bank accounts.

Notably, each recipient will receive Rs 5,000 during Rakhi Purnima and another Rs 5,000 on International Women's Day, with funds directly deposited and accompanied by a Subhadra Debit Card. To encourage digital transactions, an additional incentive of Rs 500 will be awarded to the top 100 digital transactors in each gram panchayat and urban local body.

A high-level committee, led by the chief secretary, will monitor the scheme, supported by similar committees at district, block, and urban levels. The state anticipates over one crore beneficiaries and has instructed the DGP to take strict measures against any middlemen or fraudsters involved in the scheme's implementation.

(With inputs from agencies.)