Odisha Leads in Women Empowerment Through Progressive Schemes

Bhubaneswar | October 16, 2025 Odisha has emerged as a leader in promoting women empowerment, with the state government implementing innovative initiatives to provide financial security, skill development, and social support to women. Minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena highlighted the success of the “Lakhpati Didi” initiative, under which Odisha has become the top-performing state in India. Over one crore women across the state are benefiting from the Subhadra Yojana, which provides financial assistance and opportunities to enhance economic independence and promote entrepreneurship among women. The government has recently launched the Ama Subahaka Yojana, targeting 1,100 women over the next four years. Under this scheme, eligible women can access bank loans of up to ₹10 lakh, repayable over five years with an interest subsidy of 11% per annum. Additionally, women who choose electric vehicles are entitled to an extra incentive of ₹2 lakh. These programs are designed not only to empower women financially but also to encourage sustainable practices and support innovation in small-scale businesses, reflecting the state’s commitment to inclusive development and gender equality. Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi emphasized the importance of supporting women in maintaining cultural traditions while ensuring their access to modern services. He announced that a digital registration system will be introduced next year for Habisyali mothers, women pilgrims, particularly widows, who observe the month-long Kartik Brata ritual in Puri. This system will facilitate medical and emergency services during the sacred month, ensuring their safety and wellbeing while they undertake the spiritual observance. The state government has allocated Rs 3.30 crore for the welfare of Habisyali mothers this year, an increase of Rs 70 lakh from the previous year. The Chief Minister noted that the devotion of Habisyali mothers symbolizes Odisha’s moral strength and cultural identity, and supporting them reflects the state’s commitment to preserving heritage while empowering women to participate fully in society. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to make Odisha a model state for women empowerment, combining financial support, social welfare, and cultural recognition. The Subhadra and Ama Subahaka schemes focus on providing opportunities for financial independence, entrepreneurship, and access to modern facilities, while the Habisyali support program ensures that traditional practices are respected and integrated into contemporary governance frameworks. Minister Jena stressed that Odisha’s achievements in women empowerment are not limited to financial assistance but also include skill development, training, and fostering an environment where women can pursue personal and professional goals without hindrance. The state government continues to work closely with financial institutions, local authorities, and community organizations to expand the reach of these initiatives, ensuring that women from all regions and backgrounds can participate and benefit. By combining traditional values with modern welfare programs, Odisha is setting a benchmark for other states in promoting gender equality and women’s development. The success of these programs demonstrates the state’s proactive approach, balancing cultural preservation with economic empowerment, and creating opportunities for women to thrive in every aspect of life. These efforts underscore Odisha’s leadership role in shaping policies that strengthen women’s participation in both economic and social spheres. Odisha Sets Example in Women Empowerment Odisha is emerging as a leader in women empowerment through innovative schemes. Over one crore women benefit from the Subhadra Yojana, while the Ama Subahaka Yojana targets 1,100 women over four years, offering bank loans up to ₹10 lakh with subsidized interest. Additional incentives of ₹2 lakh are provided to women choosing electric vehicles. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced a digital registration system for Habisyali mothers to ensure medical and emergency support during the Kartik Brata ritual. The government has allocated Rs 3.30 crore for their welfare, reflecting Odisha’s commitment to empowering women across financial, social, and cultural spheres.