Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Government of Odisha's flagship scheme 'SUBHADRA' during a grand event today (September 17, 2024) in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. This women-centric initiative is set to benefit over 1 crore women across the state, furthering the central government’s focus on empowering women. The scheme is a significant step in the government's welfare programs and aims to uplift Odisha's women by providing financial support. In a symbolic gesture, PM Modi initiated fund transfers to the bank accounts of more than 10 lakh women.
During his address, the Prime Minister lauded the timing of the launch, coinciding with the auspicious festivities of Ganesh Utsav, Anant Chaturdashi, and Vishwakarma Puja. He highlighted that India is a unique nation that worships skill and labor, referring to the SUBHADRA scheme as a gift to Odisha’s women on such an auspicious occasion.
The Prime Minister explained that under the SUBHADRA scheme, women between the ages of 21 to 60 years will receive Rs 50,000 over five years through direct bank transfers, with the program also linked to the pilot phase of the RBI's digital currency. "This digital initiative empowers women economically while fostering financial inclusion," Modi noted. He praised Odisha’s leadership and public workers for their active role in raising awareness about the scheme across the state.
The event also marked a significant infrastructural development for the state, as PM Modi laid the foundation for multiple railway and national highway projects worth more than Rs 3,800 crore. Railway projects worth Rs 2,800 crore and national highways totaling Rs 1,000 crore are expected to enhance regional connectivity and boost economic growth in Odisha.
While congratulating the people of Odisha for these new developments, the Prime Minister reiterated his commitment to the state, highlighting the fulfillment of promises made during the previous elections. He noted that the "double-engine government" — referring to the BJP at both the state and central levels — is driving rapid progress. Modi added that over the last decade, central funding to Odisha had tripled, enabling the implementation of key initiatives like Ayushman Bharat and Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY).
The Prime Minister's visit also coincided with the release of the first installment of assistance under the PMAY-G scheme for nearly 10 lakh beneficiaries across 14 states. In a simultaneous Griha Pravesh (housewarming) celebration, 26 lakh families from rural and urban areas received keys to their newly constructed homes, symbolizing the government’s ongoing commitment to housing for all. During the event, Modi also launched the Awaas+ 2024 App to survey additional households eligible for housing assistance under the PMAY-G scheme.
Modi remarked, "A house is more than just four walls; it represents security, dignity, and progress for families." He shared the joy of participating in the Griha Pravesh ceremony for a tribal family, saying, “Their happiness is priceless, and moments like these energize my resolve to continue working for the poor, dalits, and deprived communities.”
Touching upon the central role of women in development, the Prime Minister stated, “The participation of women is key to Odisha’s development. Empowering women is empowering society.” Modi highlighted that initiatives like PMAY and SUBHADRA reflect the government's commitment to women’s empowerment, as homes under PMAY are often registered in the names of women beneficiaries, providing them with economic security.
Additionally, Modi praised the women-centric nature of the initiatives undertaken during the BJP government's first 100 days in office, including the creation of over 11 lakh 'Lakhpati Didis' and increasing MSP for farmers to benefit crores of households.
In his closing remarks, Modi reflected on Odisha’s vast potential, citing its rich mineral resources, scenic tourism opportunities, and industrious youth. He also highlighted the need to strengthen connectivity, promising further investments in infrastructure, including the much-anticipated Puri-Konark railway line and the high-tech Namo Bharat Rapid Rail.
Governor Raghubar Das and Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Manjhi were among the dignitaries who attended the event, expressing their appreciation for the initiatives that promise to transform Odisha.
