Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday said that women-centric welfare and entrepreneurship schemes launched by the state government have significantly enhanced the dignity, security and economic independence of women across Assam.
Speaking at a programme to distribute seed capital under the Mukhyamantri Mahila Udyamita Abhiyan (MMUA), the Chief Minister said empowering women has been a key focus of the government’s development agenda. He noted that targeted financial assistance and social welfare measures have helped women become self-reliant and confident contributors to the state’s economy.
Sarma said that nearly 12 lakh women across 50 Assembly constituencies have already received financial assistance under the MMUA scheme, and the distribution process will be completed in all constituencies by February 15 next year. Under the first phase, the government aims to provide ₹10,000 each to 32 lakh women, involving an expenditure of around ₹3,200 crore.
Highlighting other initiatives, the Chief Minister said the expansion of the Orunodoi scheme has played a crucial role in supporting women from economically weaker sections. Monthly financial assistance under Orunodoi has been increased to ₹1,250, with the number of beneficiaries rising to nearly 40 lakh. Widow pensions have also been enhanced to the same amount.
Sarma added that strict measures against social evils such as child marriage, along with improved access to education and healthcare for girls, have contributed to improving the overall status of women in the state. He said these initiatives have helped restore dignity and provide a sense of security to women, particularly in rural areas.
Urging beneficiaries to make productive use of the seed capital, the Chief Minister encouraged women to work towards becoming “Lakhpati Baideu,” stating that additional financial assistance of ₹25,000 to ₹50,000 would be provided in later phases to those who successfully expand their enterprises.
The Chief Minister also said Assam’s efforts align with the Centre’s broader goal of financially empowering women, adding that the state aims to play a significant role in achieving this national objective through sustained policy support.
The programme witnessed participation from government officials, beneficiaries and local representatives, highlighting the growing focus on women-led development initiatives in Assam.
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