Bhubaneswar: The government on Tuesday launched the ‘Mukhyamantri Kanya Bibaha Yojana’, a welfare scheme to support the marriage of daughters from economically weaker families. The initiative gives special focus to Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe households.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi inaugurated the scheme at the sacred shrine of Maa Taratarini Temple in Ganjam district. He said the government remains committed to ensuring dignity and social security for women across the State.
Addressing the gathering, the CM said he attended the event not only as the head of the government but also as a father and brother. He extended his blessings to newly married couples and wished them a happy married life.
Under the scheme, eligible beneficiaries will receive Rs60,000 as financial assistance. The government aims to reduce the financial stress families face during the marriage of their daughters.
Majhi said women’s empowerment remains a core priority of his government. He noted that the scheme complements earlier initiatives such as the Subhadra Yojana. He added that the programme seeks to promote a respectful social outlook towards the girl child.
Officials said the scheme also targets social reform. It seeks to discourage practices such as dowry and promote widow remarriage. The government has also made marriage registration mandatory to strengthen women’s legal and social security.
The CM linked the initiative to Vision Odisha-2036, which focuses on building a developed and inclusive state. In a post on X, he said the government aims to ensure that every daughter becomes educated, safe, and self-reliant.
During his visit, Majhi offered prayers at the Maa Taratarini shrine. He also interacted with beneficiaries and residents.
The State government said the scheme aligns with the Union Budget 2026-27, which places strong emphasis on women-centric development. Initiatives such as Self-Help Group entrepreneur markets aim to boost women’s economic participation at the grassroots level.
Officials said the ‘Mukhyamantri Kanya Bibaha Yojana’ marks another step in Odisha’s efforts to combine welfare support with long-term women empowerment.
