Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma Launches Orunodoi 3.0 to Empower Women and Support Families

Guwahati (Assam), September 19: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has launched the Orunodoi 3.0 scheme to empower women and support families across the state. The launch event took place at Janata Bhawan in Guwahati.

Key Highlights of Orunodoi 3.0

The Orunodoi 3.0 scheme aims to benefit 37.2 lakh families, providing them with Rs. 1250 every month. The scheme prioritizes destitute women, divyangs (differently-abled), widows, transgenders, and other vulnerable groups. Families with an income below Rs. 2 lakh are eligible to apply.

Chief Minister Sarma emphasized that the scheme is part of a comprehensive social security net, covering nutritional, financial, medical, and ancillary needs. The state government will spend Rs. 467 crore per month on this scheme.

Distribution of Ration Cards

In addition to Orunodoi 3.0, CM Sarma also initiated the distribution of ration cards to 19,92,167 beneficiaries. These cards will allow families to receive free food grains every month and free treatment under Ayushman Bharat. The government will spend over Rs. 440 crore per month on this initiative.

Historical Context and Future Plans

Orunodoi was first introduced in the 2020-21 budget to promote self-sufficiency and confidence among the people of Assam. The scheme has already benefited 24.60 lakh people through its previous versions, Orunodoi 1.0 and 2.0. The new version aims to add 12 lakh more beneficiaries.

CM Sarma highlighted that the scheme has helped people during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. The financial benefit has increased from Rs. 830 to Rs. 1250 per month.

Eligibility and Exclusions

To qualify for Orunodoi 3.0, previous beneficiaries must reapply, and only those with a ration card are eligible. The scheme excludes current and former MPs, MLAs, government employees, pensioners, professionals, and those with four-wheeled vehicles or more than 15 bighas of land.

The implementation of Orunodoi 3.0 is expected to be completed by January 2025. Existing beneficiaries will continue to receive their benefits without interruption.

Inspiration for Other States

The Orunodoi scheme has inspired similar women’s empowerment programs in other states, such as the Ladli Behna scheme in Madhya Pradesh, the Mahtari Vandana Yojana in Chhattisgarh, and the Gruha Jyothi scheme in Karnataka.

Conclusion

With the launch of Orunodoi 3.0, Assam aims to uplift 80 lakh families out of poverty through direct assistance. The scheme requires an annual budget of Rs. 5,604 crore, marking a significant Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) initiative for the state.

Finance Minister Ajanta Neog, Chief Secretary Dr. Ravi Kota, and other dignitaries were also present at the launch event.