Empowering Odisha's Future: Government Initiatives for Women and Girls

In a bid to empower women and address female foeticide, the Odisha government will soon introduce a standard operating procedure (SOP) for various girl child-centric initiatives, said Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida. Key programs include the 'Kanya Sumangal' yojana and the inclusion of 'Subhadra Sambad' under the state's Subhadra Yojana.

The Kanya Sumangal yojana, recently announced in the state budget for 2026-27 by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, promises to deposit funds for girl children, ensuring financial support by the time they turn 21. This initiative aims to promote education and reduce the incidence of child marriage, especially in economically weaker sections.

Parida, overseeing the Women and Child Development department, stated that details about eligibility and disbursement under these schemes will be clear soon. The programs will also work in collaboration with grassroots platforms, enhancing the state's commitment to female empowerment and education.