The Odisha government will soon launch the Mukhya Mantri Kanya Bibaha Yojana to fund weddings of girls from low-income families, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced.
This scheme aims to alleviate the financial burdens associated with weddings for low-income households. The government will organize mass marriage ceremonies, covering all associated expenses and providing gifts to the brides. A budget allocation of ₹12 crore has been designated for the fiscal year 2025-26 to implement this program. The initiative is inspired by similar efforts in Madhya Pradesh, focusing on assisting families struggling with marriage costs.
In a parallel effort to enhance women’s welfare, the state government is expanding its flagship ‘Subhadra Yojana’ into ‘Subhadra Plus.’ This comprehensive umbrella scheme encompasses various components targeting the holistic development and empowerment of women and girls:
Kishori Subhadra: Focuses on adolescent support.
Subhadra Surakhya: Aims to ensure women’s safety.
Subhadra Sakhi: Establishes community networks.
Subhadra Scholars: Promotes educational opportunities.
A substantial budget of ₹10,145 crore has been allocated for the broader Subhadra Yojana, with ₹153 crore specifically earmarked for safety initiatives under Subhadra Surakhya.
Short Headline: Odisha Launches ‘Mukhya Mantri Kanya Bibaha Yojana’ and Expands ‘Subhadra Yojana’ to Empower Women
