Odisha is making strong strides in ensuring the welfare of its most vulnerable citizens. A major announcement is by the state government, which increased the monthly social security pension to senior citizens 80 years or older and over 80% disabled from a mere Rs 1,200 to a more reasonable Rs 3,500. This is going to significantly raise the amount, hoping to alleviate the much-needed financial relief for the elderly and disabled, improving their quality of life and well-being.
This was a decision taken in the most crucial state cabinet meeting under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Manjhi. The best part is that this enhanced pension will be implemented from January 2025, thus providing relief to the beneficiaries right away. While informing the media about this crucial decision, Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja stressed the government’s concern for enhancing the financial security of the elderly and disabled members of society.
Apart from pension increase, the Odisha government is actively engaged in increasing access to clean energy. The cabinet has approved the inclusion of an impressive 300,000 households in the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar scheme. This ambitious initiative aims to provide free electricity to these households by facilitating the installation of solar panels. The central government also provides a generous subsidy of Rs 30,000 for each installation, which is further supplemented by an additional subsidy of Rs 25,000 from the state government itself. This combined effort will significantly reduce the financial burden on beneficiaries and promote the adoption of sustainable energy sources.
The Odisha government is also giving importance to women’s empowerment through its innovative Sabdhra scheme. The state targets enrolling all eligible women under this scheme by March 2025. Those who apply successfully before March 31, 2025, and qualify will be granted substantial financial support in two convenient installments of Rs 10,000 each in 2024. The objective of this scheme is to economically empower women so that they can participate more actively in the social and economic development of the state.
To support the sustainability of these social welfare programs, the Odisha government has taken steps that are crucial in strengthening the state’s finances. The Odisha State Civil Supply Corporation received a crucial guarantee support of Rs 17,500 crore for a period of five years. The considerable support it receives involves the waiver of the guarantee fee amounting to a massive Rs 437.5 crore, giving the corporation much-needed financial elbowroom. Also, the government has streamlined mineral management by shifting responsibility from the Revenue Department to the Steel and Minerals Department so that the natural resources of the state are more effectively and efficiently used.
The government of Odisha in 2024 is characterized by a very strong sense of moving toward citizen-centric development, with special focus on elderly people, disabled people, and women. It has increased pensions, expanded access to solar power, empowered women through financial support, and brought the state finances back into shape. With such schemes in place, these measures can bring about large-scale positive development impacts toward the well-being of the Odia people and bring in overall betterment to the state.
Disclaimer: This is a general informative article and, hence, may not be suitable financial advice. Research must be pursued with 1 qualified professionals and, therefore, the reader to arrive at appropriate decisions.
Read More :-
Staying Warm Without Breaking the Bank Tips to Reduce Electricity Bills This Winter
Navigating Higher Education Finances Is a Personal Loan the Right Choice
Tata Luxury SUV Will Destroy Creta, Powerful Engine With Amazing Features
Pension Freedom EPFO New System Lets You Withdraw Your Pension From Any Bank in India
