Guwahati: The Orunodoi 2.0 programme was virtually introduced on Wednesday by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma from Assam House in New Delhi.
The chief minister announced the launch of the programme and stated that the government’s goal was to cover 35 lakh individuals through the Orunodoi programme. He claimed that the previous programme left out almost 2 lakh 75,000 individuals.
More than 17 lakh women have been earning Rs. 1,250 apiece on the tenth of every month through this programme which is credited to their bank accounts. It has been of enormous assistance to families in times of severe need particularly during the numerous COVID-19 waves.
The Orunodoi 2.0 programme would add around 10.50 lakh additional beneficiaries making it the largest DBT programme in Assam history with a total of 27 lakh recipients.
The chief minister added that transgender people and people with disabilities would be included in the programme. The programme with DC quota will also benefit those residing in nursing homes.
He also said that starting in April 2023, Orunodoi would take over for all Deen Dayal Dibyangan Pension Scheme and Indira Miri Universal Widow Pension Scheme participants.
“One of the ‘foremost beads’ among Ashtadash Mukutar Unnoyonee Maala announced in State Budget 2020-21, Orunodoi has brought a ray of hope for lakhs of families. I’m sure Orunodoi 2.0 will help eradicate poverty & ensure socio-economic welfare of financially-vulnerable families,” he added.
The scheme spends a total of Rs. 4,142 crore annually.