Tue Sep 17 16:44:36 UTC 2024: ## Modi Launches “Subhadra” Scheme in Odisha, Empowering Women with Financial Aid
**Bhubaneswar, September 17, 2024:** Prime Minister Narendra Modi today launched the “Subhadra” scheme in Odisha, a landmark initiative that aims to empower women by providing financial assistance of ₹50,000 over five years to more than one crore women. This scheme was a key promise in the BJP’s manifesto for the state, contributing to their victory in the 2024 elections.
The scheme was rolled out within the first 100 days of the BJP government taking office, with initial payments of ₹5,000 being transferred to the bank accounts of over 25 lakh women. The total cost of the scheme is expected to be ₹55,825 crore.
Speaking at the launch event, PM Modi emphasized the importance of women’s empowerment in driving development. “The country or State progresses on the development path when half of the population – women contribute proportionately,” he said. “The growing capability and empowerment of women are going to be the cornerstone of Odisha’s development.”
The scheme is also being linked to the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) digital currency pilot project, allowing women to spend the money digitally. “I congratulate the mothers, sisters, daughters, and all the women of Odisha for joining this first-of-its-kind digital currency scheme in the country,” PM Modi added.
In addition to launching the Subhadra scheme, PM Modi also laid the foundation stone for railway and national highway projects worth more than ₹3,800 crore in Bhubaneswar, signifying the government’s commitment to infrastructure development and regional connectivity.
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