In recent months, few welfare initiatives have captured as much public attention as Odisha’s Subhadra Scheme. This ambitious women empowerment program has now entered its third phase, with the latest payment released on Raksha Bandhan 2025, directly benefiting over 1 crore women across the state. The scheme’s scale, long-term vision, and unique approach to financial inclusion have made it one of the most talked-about social welfare initiatives in India.
This article will break down everything you need to know about the Subhadra Yojana—its background, objectives, eligibility, application process, progress so far, and the larger impact it is having on the lives of women in Odisha.
Background and Launch of the Subhadra Scheme
The Subhadra Yojana was officially launched on 17 September 2024 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Managed by the Women and Child Development Department, the scheme is part of a broader effort to uplift women from economically weaker sections and bring them into the fold of financial and social empowerment.
Unlike many short-term welfare programs, the Subhadra Scheme is designed to run for five years—from 2024–25 to 2028–29—with a promise to provide ₹50,000 to every eligible woman during this period. The aim is not only to offer financial assistance but also to foster digital literacy, entrepreneurship, and independence.
Objectives of the Subhadra Scheme
- Empowering women financially by providing direct monetary support.
- Encouraging self-reliance through savings and small-scale entrepreneurial activities.
- Bridging the gender gap in access to financial resources and welfare benefits.
- Promoting digital transactions and financial literacy.
- Offering a safety net to women in vulnerable situations.
Key Features of the Scheme
1. Annual Financial Assistance
- Each eligible woman gets ₹10,000 per year, split into two instalments of ₹5,000.
- Funds are directly transferred to the Aadhaar-linked bank account via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
- Disbursements are timed to coincide with Raksha Bandhan (August) and International Women’s Day (March).
2. Five-Year Duration
- The scheme runs for five years, totaling ₹50,000 per beneficiary.
- More than 1 crore women are expected to benefit.
3. Subhadra Debit Card
- A dedicated ATM-cum-debit card issued to all beneficiaries.
- Promotes secure fund access, dignity, and digital payments.
4. Digital Transaction Incentives
- The top 100 digital transaction performers in each Gram Panchayat or urban locality receive a bonus ₹500 annually.
5. Inclusive Registration
- Ongoing enrollment ensures that newly eligible women—such as those turning 21—are added.
- Special drives are conducted for those who missed earlier phases.
Eligibility Criteria
- Women aged 21–60 years.
- Must be residents of Odisha.
- Belong to economically weaker sections (under NFSA/SFSS or with family income below ₹2.5 lakh/year).
- Excludes government employees, income tax payers, and those already receiving more than ₹18,000/year under other welfare programs.
- Both married and unmarried women are eligible.
Application Process
Online Application
- Visit https://subhadra.odisha.gov.in/.
- Register with personal and banking details.
- Complete e-KYC.
- Upload required documents (ID, address proof, income certificate).
- Track status online.
Offline Application
- Collect the form from Gram Panchayat offices, urban bodies, or Anganwadi centers.
- Fill it out and attach necessary documents.
- Submit for verification.
- Once approved, funds are transferred to your bank account.
Progress So Far
Since its launch, the scheme has made remarkable progress:
- First Payment: ₹5,000 released on PM Modi’s birthday (September 2024).
- Second Payment: ₹5,000 released on International Women’s Day (March 2025).
- Third Payment: ₹5,000 released on Raksha Bandhan (August 9, 2025).
In this third phase, special camps were organized to onboard women who missed earlier instalments, ensuring no one is left behind. To date, over 98 lakh women have received at least two payments, and the number is still growing.
Impact of the Subhadra Scheme
1. Financial Independence
For many women, this is the first time they have had direct control over personal funds. It allows them to pay for basic needs, emergencies, or invest in small-scale businesses like tailoring, mushroom farming, or candle making.
2. Boost in Digital Literacy
The Subhadra Debit Card and transaction incentives are encouraging women—even in rural areas—to adopt digital payments.
3. Support for Families
When women have more financial control, households see improvements in nutrition, healthcare, and education for children.
4. Encouragement for Entrepreneurship
Small but regular funds are enabling women to start micro-businesses without taking loans.
Challenges
- Verification Delays: Some women face delays due to document mismatches or incomplete KYC.
- Digital Divide: Elderly or rural beneficiaries may need additional support to use cards.
- Long-Term Sustainability: To have a lasting impact, funds should be coupled with skill development and market linkages.
Looking Ahead
The Subhadra Scheme’s third-phase release on Raksha Bandhan 2025 is more than just a symbolic gesture—it’s a reaffirmation of the state’s commitment to women’s empowerment. If implemented consistently and with continuous improvements, this initiative could become a model for other states in India.