Odisha advances inclusive growth with women-centric schemes driving empowerment

Jul 28, 2026

Bhubaneswar [India], July 27 ( ANI): Odisha is scripting a new chapter of inclusive growth—where women are not just beneficiaries of development, but the architects of a stronger, more prosperous future. Across cities, villages, and tribal heartlands, the women of Odisha are rising with confidence, dignity, and opportunity. Their aspirations are becoming the foundation of a Viksit Odisha, contributing to the vision of a Viksit Bharat. At the heart of this transformation is the Subhadra Yojana. Launched on 17 September 2024, the scheme has empowered over one crore women during the financial years 2024–25 and 2025–26. Through four instalments, more than ₹20,000 crore has been transferred directly into beneficiaries' bank accounts. The journey of empowerment continues through Mission Shakti, where millions of women in Self-Help Groups are gaining access to skills, affordable credit, and markets. Complementing this, Odisha government's flagship scheme Mukhyamantri Kanya Bibaha Yojana, launched in February 2026, provides financial assistance of ₹60,000 to each eligible couple to support marriages in economically weaker families while discouraging child marriage and dowry practices. Of this amount, ₹45,000 is transferred directly to the bride's bank account through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), while the remaining amount is utilised for organising the marriage ceremony.