By Yajati Rout

Copyright pragativadi

Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida announced that over 338 CDPO (Child Development Project Officer) units across the state will host special programs, blending celebration with community outreach to highlight the scheme’s transformative impact on women’s lives.

Launched by PM Modi on September 17, 2024—coinciding with his birthday—the Subhadra Yojana has emerged as a cornerstone of Odisha’s welfare agenda, providing financial assistance of ₹50,000 over five years (₹10,000 annually) to over one crore women aged 21-60 from low-income families.

Aimed at fostering economic independence and social protection, the initiative—named after Devi Subhadra, sister of Lord Jagannath—has already disbursed over ₹1,250 crore to more than 25 lakh beneficiaries in its inaugural phase, empowering women to support their families and pursue entrepreneurial dreams.

Speaking to the media here today, Parida emphasised the scheme’s role in driving positive change. “The ‘Thank You Modi’ programs are a heartfelt tribute to the Prime Minister’s vision for Nari Shakti (women’s power),” she said. At these events, beneficiaries will share personal success stories through the “Subhadra Yatra” initiative, illustrating how the annual payouts have revolutionised their households, from funding education to starting small businesses.

The celebrations will dovetail with the Nutrition Month kickoff on September 17 at Anganwadi centres, creating a unified platform for holistic engagement. Women will not only recount their Subhadra journeys but also participate in nutrition awareness sessions, promoting healthy living alongside financial literacy. “This integration ensures that empowerment goes beyond money—it’s about building stronger, healthier families,” Parida added.

Further amplifying the outreach, Subhadra Help Desk workers at Group Health Centres will man dedicated stalls during the “Healthy Woman, Empowered Family” programs. They will distribute informational leaflets, clarify eligibility details, and enrol new beneficiaries on the spot, targeting even greater awareness and participation statewide.

Department officials underscored that the core objective is to showcase Subhadra’s profound ripple effects—from boosted household incomes to enhanced gender equity—while encouraging more women to join the fold. With registrations ongoing via the official portal (subhadra.odisha.gov.in) and Aadhaar-linked bank accounts, the scheme continues to gain momentum, backed by a ₹10,000 crore state budget allocation.

As Odisha reflects on a year of progress, these festivities stand as a testament to collaborative governance, blending state innovation with national leadership to uplift millions.