Odisha's Subhadra Yojana Disburses Third Installment to Over 1.24 Crore Women Empowering Rural Economies

On August 9, 2025, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi officially disbursed the third installment of the Subhadra Yojana, a flagship welfare scheme benefiting over 1.24 crore women across the state. The distribution event took place in Jeypore, Koraput district, coinciding with the Rakhi Purnima festival, symbolically strengthening the government's commitment to women empowerment and economic development.

The scheme provides ₹5,000 annually to women beneficiaries to foster financial independence and encourage entrepreneurship. The Chief Minister personally handed over funds to more than 15 beneficiaries during the ceremony, while simultaneous direct transfers were credited to the accounts of the remaining eligible women. This year's disbursement also includes efforts to resurvey and incorporate approximately 2 lakh women who missed previous installments, reflecting the scheme's growing inclusivity.

Since its inception, Subhadra Yojana has made significant strides in uplifting women financially. The first installment was distributed on September 17, 2024, coinciding with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's birthday, followed by a second tranche on Women’s Day 2025. The government has declared the annual distribution dates to be Rakhi Purnima and Women’s Day, affirming the scheme's sustained vision.

Alongside the fund distribution, the Chief Minister announced ambitious development initiatives in Koraput district. These included laying the foundation for 436 projects worth over ₹452 crore and inaugurating 126 projects valued at ₹309.42 crore. These projects span crucial sectors such as education, health, infrastructure (bridges and roads), and tourism, aimed at accelerating regional growth.

In addition, the CM revealed plans for a new Vande Bharat Express train connecting Jeypore to Bhubaneswar and announced the revival of the Jeypore paper mill and establishment of a new college in the town. These infrastructural improvements are expected to further boost economic opportunities and connectivity in the region.

The Subhadra Scheme, alongside other government initiatives, is widely regarded as a transformative force in Odisha, positively impacting the socio-economic fabric by empowering women financially and enabling broader community development. Chief Minister Majhi highlighted how the program has opened new avenues for women to become entrepreneurs and contribute meaningfully to their families and communities.