Guwahati, Aug 1 — Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Saturday said that the state government has resumed the monthly financial assistance under the Orunodoi 3.0 scheme for more than 37 lakh women, describing it as the first major budget announcement to be implemented and the first flagship programme rolled out after the BJP-led government returned to power in the May Assembly elections.
In a statement, Sarma said the Orunodoi scheme has evolved from a welfare initiative into a dependable social security framework that empowers economically weaker families while promoting financial inclusion across the state.
The Chief Minister said the latest phase of the scheme has introduced several reforms aimed at improving transparency, convenience and accessibility for beneficiaries. As part of the revamped system, the government has introduced Aadhaar-based beneficiary verification to ensure that financial assistance reaches only genuine recipients while eliminating duplication and irregularities.
To strengthen last-mile service delivery, dedicated "Orunodoi Sarathis" will be deployed in every Assembly constituency. These personnel will assist beneficiaries with enrolment, grievance redressal and other support services related to the scheme.
Sarma reiterated the government's commitment to further expanding the scope of Orunodoi, saying the financial assistance provided under the scheme will be enhanced in a phased manner, in line with the promise made to women beneficiaries.
The Chief Minister also announced plans to introduce an interest-free micro-credit facility linked to the scheme. Under the proposed model, eligible beneficiaries will be able to avail loans of up to Rs 15,000 annually against their future Orunodoi entitlement without paying any interest.
The loan repayments will be adjusted from their subsequent monthly assistance. Additionally, beneficiaries who prefer borrowing through banks will also be able to access loans under a similar repayment mechanism, with instalments deducted seamlessly from their monthly Orunodoi benefits.
Sarma said the government remains committed to continuously strengthening the scheme to make it more accessible, responsive and empowering for women and economically vulnerable households across Assam.
The Orunodoi scheme, launched in 2020, is the Assam government's flagship direct benefit transfer programme aimed at providing monthly financial assistance to women from low-income families to support household expenses and improve their quality of life.