Guwahati, 20 May (HS): The Assam government’s flagship welfare initiative, the Orunodoi scheme, has emerged as a major support system for economically disadvantaged families across the state by ensuring direct monthly financial assistance to women-led households.

Under the scheme, a financial aid of ₹1,250 is transferred directly to the bank accounts of the primary female caretaker of eligible families through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mechanism on the 10th of every month. The initiative aims to strengthen the financial independence of women while supporting families struggling with poverty and rising living expenses.

The scheme has particularly benefited widows, unmarried women above 45 years of age, separated women, differently-abled persons, and households with critically ill members. By placing women at the centre of financial assistance, the government has sought to improve household-level decision-making and ensure better utilisation of funds for essential needs such as food, medicines, education and daily expenses.

At present, more than 38 lakh women across Assam are receiving benefits under the Orunodoi scheme, making it one of the largest direct welfare outreach programmes in the state. Beneficiaries in both rural and urban areas have reported improved financial security and reduced dependence on informal borrowing for day-to-day survival.

The scheme has also contributed towards enhancing women’s participation in banking and financial systems by encouraging direct account-based transactions. Officials stated that the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to inclusive development and social welfare by providing sustained economic support to vulnerable sections of society.----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash