Odisha CM Majhi Launches Subhadra Scheme

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Majhi has unveiled the Subhadra scheme, a significant initiative under the BJP government. The scheme promises ₹50,000 to one crore women aged 21 to 60 over the next five years, with a total budget allocation of ₹55,825 crore. The funds will be disbursed in annual installments of ₹10,000, divided into two payments of ₹5,000 each on Rakhi Purnima and International Women’s Day.

Scheme Details

The Subhadra scheme will start from the financial year 2024-25 and continue until 2028-29. Eligible women will receive the ₹50,000 in five annual installments, designed to benefit one crore women in the state. Payments will be made directly to beneficiaries’ Aadhaar-enabled bank accounts via the Aadhaar Payment Bridge System (APBS), and a Subhadra debit card will be issued. Additionally, incentives of ₹500 will be given to 100 beneficiaries with the highest digital transactions in each gram panchayat and urban local body.

Opposition Criticism

The principal opposition party, Biju Janata Dal (BJD), has criticized the government for allegedly failing to meet its promise of providing ₹50,000 within two years, as outlined in the BJP’s election manifesto.

Eligibility Criteria

Women from economically privileged backgrounds, government employees, or income tax payees are excluded from the scheme. The implementation aims to bring transparency and encourage digital transactions among beneficiaries.

Odisha: Key Points

Capital: Bhubaneswar

Chief Minister: Mohan Charan Majhi

Governor: Raghubar Das

Language: Odia

Major Dance Forms: Odissi, Ghoomar

Cuisine: Known for dishes like Dalma, Pakhala Bhata, and Rasgulla

Economy: Predominantly agricultural with significant contributions from mining and tourism

Tourist Attractions: Konark Sun Temple, Puri Jagannath Temple, Chilika Lake

Climate: Tropical monsoon climate with heavy rainfall during the monsoon season

Cultural Heritage: Rich in traditional art, dance, and festivals like Rath Yatra and Durga Puja