Bhubaneswar: Odisha has emerged as a national frontrunner in implementing the Lakhpati Didi Scheme, securing the second position across the country. The state has already empowered 5 lakh women under the initiative, with Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi setting a bold target to reach 25 lakh women by 2027.
The announcement was made at a grand event held in Ambapua, Berhampur, where the Chief Minister also disbursed the second installment of the Subhadra Yojana, benefiting 1 crore 64 thousand women. He emphasized that within just nine months of his government, significant strides have been made toward women’s financial independence, an achievement he described as a “Subhadra Revolution.”
The Chief Minister highlighted that the Subhadra Yojana is not just financial assistance but a movement for economic upliftment. Under this scheme, ₹10,000 is provided in two installments to each beneficiary, ensuring direct financial support to women across the state.
Criticizing past administrations, Majhi remarked, “For 24 years, women’s empowerment remained a slogan, but in just 9 months, we have brought real change that has positively impacted over 1 crore women in Odisha.”
He also announced upcoming initiatives, including financial aid for daughters’ marriages and free pilgrimages to the Jagannath temple for underprivileged devotees, underscoring his government’s commitment to holistic welfare.
During his speech, the Chief Minister took a strong stance against crimes and violence against women, declaring that offenders “have no place in a civilized society and must remain behind bars.” He instructed authorities to strictly enforce laws and ensure a safe and dignified environment for women in Odisha.
Apart from initiatives focused on women, the Chief Minister also inaugurated and laid the foundation for developmental projects worth ₹638 crore in Ganjam district. These projects include:
- ₹493 crore allocated for new infrastructure, including road improvements, water supply systems, bridges, and healthcare facilities.
- ₹145 crore worth of completed projects inaugurated, focusing on in-stream storage projects to improve water availability.
Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, addressing the gathering, highlighted the rapid progress of women’s empowerment under the current government. She stated that over 1 crore women have already benefited from Subhadra Yojana within eight months and reaffirmed the administration’s resolve to further strengthen women’s financial and social standing.
The event was attended by key dignitaries, including Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan, Fisheries and Animal Resources Development Minister Gokulananda Mallik, Commerce and Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhushan Jena, Berhampur MP Pradeep Panigrahi, Aska MP Anita Subhadarshini, and several MLAs from Ganjam district.
With its aggressive push for women’s financial empowerment, Odisha is setting a benchmark for inclusive development, ensuring that economic independence becomes a reality for millions of women across the state.
