Overview of the Subhadra Scheme
The Subhadra Scheme is a major welfare initiative launched by the Odisha state government, aimed at uplifting women across the state. The scheme is designed to provide financial assistance to eligible women, empowering them to achieve better financial stability and independence. This program is set to be implemented over five financial years, from 2024-2025 to 2028-2029, with a substantial budget allocation of Rs. 55,825 crore.
Approval and Implementation
On August 22, 2023, the Odisha state cabinet officially approved the implementation of the Subhadra Scheme. The Chief Minister of Odisha emphasized that this program would play a crucial role in improving the lives of more than one crore women in the state.
Key Features of the Subhadra Scheme
1. Eligibility Criteria
- Target Group: The scheme is open to all women aged 21 to 60 years.
- Financial Assistance: Each eligible woman will receive Rs. 10,000 annually, paid in two installments of Rs. 5,000 each.
- Payment Schedule: The first installment will be disbursed on Rakhi Purnima, and the second on International Women’s Day (March 8).
- Total Benefit: Over the course of five years, each beneficiary will receive a total of Rs. 50,000.
2. Disbursement Process
- Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT): To ensure transparency and efficiency, payments will be made directly to the beneficiary’s Aadhaar-linked single-holder bank account.
- Aadhaar Payment Bridge System (APBS): This system will be used to facilitate the direct transfer of funds.
- Subhadra Debit Card: Beneficiaries will be issued a Subhadra Debit Card for easy access to the funds.
Ineligibility Criteria
Certain women are not eligible to participate in the Subhadra Scheme:
- Women from financially strong families.
- Government employees.
- Income tax payers.
- Women who receive Rs. 1,500 or more per month, or Rs. 18,000 or more per annum, from any other government scheme.
Registration Process
Women interested in availing the benefits of the Subhadra Scheme must follow these steps:
- Obtain Application Forms: Forms are available free of charge at Anganwadi Kendras, Mandal Offices, Mee Seva Kendras, Jan Seva Kendras, and other designated centers.
- Fill Out the Form: Complete the application form with the required details.
- Submit the Form: Submit the filled-out form at the designated centers.
Additional Support
To assist beneficiaries and ensure smooth implementation of the Subhadra Scheme, the following measures will be put in place:
- Call Center: A dedicated call center will be established to address queries and provide support to applicants.
- Subhadra Society: The Department of Women and Child Development will set up a Subhadra Society, tasked with overseeing the implementation and monitoring of the scheme.
Conclusion
The Subhadra Scheme is a landmark initiative aimed at empowering women in Odisha by providing them with essential financial support. Through this program, the state government aims to bring positive changes to millions of lives, fostering greater financial independence and social welfare for women across the state.