Will Assam Add 37 Lakh New Beneficiaries to the 'Orunodoi' Cash Transfer Scheme?
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Synopsis
Assam's Chief Minister unveils plans to expand the Orunodoi scheme, adding 37 lakh new beneficiaries. This initiative aims to provide crucial financial support to women and vulnerable populations, emphasizing the government's dedication to equitable welfare and infrastructure development.
Key Takeaways
- Expansion of Orunodoi scheme to include 37 lakh new beneficiaries.
- Financial assistance directed primarily towards women.
- Implementation of a subsidized LPG scheme for household fuel affordability.
- Support for over six lakh tea garden workers with a one-time grant.
- Focus on inclusivity and equitable welfare delivery.
Guwahati, May 29 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma, presided over a series of high-level meetings on Thursday to evaluate the progress of existing welfare programs and finalize strategies for new initiatives aimed at assisting the state's most vulnerable populations.
In a post on social media platform X, the Chief Minister shared numerous updates concerning financial support, education, infrastructure, and fuel subsidies.
A significant focus of discussion was the imminent expansion of the flagship Orunodoi 3.0 scheme, which will soon incorporate 37 lakh new beneficiaries.
Under the Orunodoi scheme, financial aid is specifically allocated to women from selected categories within the state.
The Chief Minister asserted that Orunodoi stands as the largest cash transfer initiative, with other states following Assam's lead.
Sarma emphasized that a thorough verification process is currently underway to ensure that no eligible beneficiary is overlooked, highlighting the government’s dedication to equitable welfare distribution.
Moreover, the government is gearing up to launch a subsidized LPG scheme, with Sarma noting that the program's details are still being assessed.
This initiative comes in response to growing concerns about fuel affordability, especially among rural and low-income households. Additionally, under the 'Eti Koli, Duti Paat' initiative, over six lakh tea garden workers will receive a one-time grant of Rs 5,000.
The distribution of application forms for this scheme will begin soon, providing direct financial relief to a historically underserved workforce.
The Chief Minister also reviewed the preparations for the launch of Jiban Prerana, a new support initiative aimed at recent graduates.
A dedicated online portal is being created to facilitate application processes and ensure broader accessibility.
On the infrastructure front, Sarma reiterated the strategic significance of the Guwahati Ring Road project, which has received support from the Union government.
He instructed officials to strictly adhere to timelines, emphasizing its potential to alleviate congestion and boost economic activity.
Lastly, Sarma engaged in discussions with college principals to ensure the smooth execution of the Nijut Moina scheme, which supports girls’ higher education.
He directed institutions to accept ration cards as valid proof of income and to avoid requesting additional documentation or fees from applicants—measures designed to enhance accessibility and make the scheme more student-friendly.
This review indicates a renewed administrative effort to expedite welfare delivery and infrastructure improvements, with the Chief Minister placing accountability and inclusivity at the core of his governance approach.
Point of View
I believe Assam's commitment to expanding its welfare schemes reflects a strategic approach to addressing poverty and inequality. The focus on inclusivity and rigorous verification underscores a genuine effort to uplift the most marginalized sections of society, setting a precedent for other states to follow.
NationPress
07/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Orunodoi scheme?
The Orunodoi scheme is a cash transfer initiative in Assam aimed at providing financial assistance to women from select vulnerable categories.
How many new beneficiaries will be added to the Orunodoi scheme?
The Orunodoi scheme will expand to include 37 lakh new beneficiaries.
Who is eligible for assistance under the Orunodoi scheme?
Financial assistance under the Orunodoi scheme is primarily targeted at women from designated vulnerable groups in Assam.
What other initiatives are being introduced alongside the Orunodoi scheme?
Alongside the Orunodoi scheme, the Assam government is launching a subsidized LPG scheme and providing financial aid to tea garden workers.
How is the government ensuring fair distribution of benefits?
The Assam government is conducting a rigorous verification process to ensure that all eligible beneficiaries receive their due assistance.
