Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a series of railway and national highway projects in Odisha, with a combined worth of US$ 453.6 million (Rs. 3,800 crore), during a significant event held in Bhubaneswar. The projects aim to strengthen infrastructure and improve connectivity in the region.
During the event, Prime Minister Modi laid the foundation stone for railway projects valued at over US$ 334.2 million (Rs. 2,800 crore). These developments will boost the state’s rail network, facilitating better transportation and economic growth. In addition, the foundation for national highway projects worth more than US$ 119.4 million (Rs. 1,000 crore) was also laid, signaling a push toward improved road infrastructure.
Earlier in the day, the Prime Minister, accompanied by Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, interacted with beneficiaries of the PM Awas Yojana-Urban in Bhubaneswar. During his visit, he toured several homes where beneficiaries warmly welcomed him with traditional sweets and aarti, expressing their appreciation for the government’s housing initiatives while sharing their concerns.
Launch of Subhadra Scheme to Empower Women
In a landmark move, Prime Minister Modi also launched the Subhadra scheme, aimed at financially empowering women across the state. Under this scheme, eligible women beneficiaries aged 21-60 will receive US$ 5.97 billion (Rs. 50,000) over five years, from 2024-25 to 2028-29. Each year, beneficiaries will be credited with US$ 119.37 (Rs. 10,000) in two equal installments directly to their bank accounts.
So far, 76 lakh women have registered for the scheme. During the launch event, over US$ 149.2 million (Rs. 1,250 crore) was disbursed to the bank accounts of more than 25 lakh women beneficiaries under the Subhadra scheme, marking a substantial step towards financial inclusion and women’s empowerment in the state.
Prime Minister Modi emphasized the significance of these initiatives in transforming the socio-economic landscape of Odisha and reaffirmed his commitment to the development of the state.
