Himanta launches Orunodoi 3.0 with enhanced ₹1250 monthly benefit for 38 lakh beneficiaries

way2barak October 8: Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma launched ‘Orunodoi 3.0’ marking the rollout of enhanced direct benefit transfer of Rs. 1250 per month to over 38 lakh beneficiaries across Assam.

Sarma addressed the beneficiaries virtually gathered in the state across 25,991 polling centers. He said that Orunodoi 3.0, is the largest welfare scheme in Assam’s history in post-independence. He said that the State government will spend about Rs. 5,000 crores annually under Orunodoi to support Antyodaya families financially.

Shedding lights on the origin of the scheme, Sarma mentioned that it was launched in 2020, during his tenure as Finance Minister, to help the poor during the economic hardship caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Initially, about 18 lakh beneficiaries received Rs. 830 each month, directly transferred to their bank accounts on the 10th of every month.

Responding to public demand, the government increased the monthly assistance from October 2021 onward. He also said, “Orunodoi is a journey of inclusion and empowerment. From 18 lakh to 28 lakh to 38 lakh beneficiaries. From Rs. 830 to Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 1,250 per month. A growing commitment to support, dignity and self-reliance”. “Orunodoi is not just financial support, it is a gesture of respect, a way to uphold our Aai Matri,” the Chief Minister added.

He stated that because of the recently concluded elections in BTC, the implementation of Orunodoi 3.0 in the BTR would require some additional time. However, maintained that six lakh beneficiaries from the BTR area would be included in Orunodoi 3.0.

Although some critics call Orunodoi a beneficiary-centric scheme, the Chief Minister said, “Orunodoi represents more than just financial aid. It stands as a symbol of respect and gratitude from the State government toward the women and mothers of Assam”. He announced that along with the installment due in September, from November onwards, families with ration cards, will receive pulses, salt, and sugar at subsidized rates. Beneficiaries who submit their cooking gas documents will also receive an additional Rs. 250 as government support. He added that the government also plans to provide edible oil at subsidized rates through the ration card in the coming days.

Sarma also said that each development block office will now have an Orunodoi Assistant to help beneficiaries file complaints or resolve issues. The government will soon release a helpline number for beneficiaries to report any problems directly. He further requested that in the event of unfortunate death of any Orunodoi beneficiary; the family should inform the government so that another eligible family member can be added to the list.