Bhubaneswar, August 10, 2024: As India gears up to celebrate its 77th Independence Day, the Odisha government is set to make a significant announcement— the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the much-anticipated "Subhadra Scheme." This scheme, which has already stirred considerable interest, is expected to benefit women across the state, with final details being released on August 15.
Deputy Chief Minister Prabhati Parida shared some insights into the scheme, revealing that the state government has allocated ₹10 crores for its implementation. However, she hinted that this budget could be increased if needed, reflecting the government's commitment to the cause. The Subhadra Scheme is scheduled to roll out on September 17, 2024, after the SOP is officially published.
In the lead-up to this announcement, discussions and debates have already begun. People are curious about who will be included in the scheme, and political experts are speculating on its reach. There are talks that the scheme may exclude individuals from higher income brackets, particularly salaried employees and business owners who pay income tax. This has led to widespread belief that the Subhadra Scheme is being tailored with the welfare of economically disadvantaged women in mind.
Deputy Chief Minister Parida addressed these speculations without directly pointing fingers at any political party. She emphasized that the current government is focused on genuine development for women and not on using them as a "vote bank," a clear reference to criticisms of previous administrations. Parida also reassured the public that existing initiatives like Mission Shakti will continue to operate alongside the Subhadra Scheme.
Before the last elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) had promised to introduce the Subhadra Scheme to uplift the women of Odisha. Staying true to its word, the government has allocated a substantial ₹10,000 crores in its first budget to ensure the scheme's success. This significant financial commitment underscores the government's dedication to women's welfare.
However, the Deputy Chief Minister also cautioned the public against falling for misinformation. No official forms or websites for applying to the Subhadra Scheme have been launched yet. She urged people to wait for the official announcement and not be misled by rumours.
As the state waits for August 15, the Subhadra Scheme has already become a topic of widespread interest and anticipation. It promises to be a pivotal moment for Odisha's women, offering new opportunities for growth and development.