GUWAHATI: The Assam government has emphasised women’s empowerment in its 2025-26 budget, introducing a series of financial, social, and welfare initiatives for the state’s women. Presented by Finance Minister Ajanta Neog on Monday, March 10, the budget includes measures to spur economic opportunities, healthcare, education, and safety amongst them.
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Expansion of Orunodoi Scheme & Financial Support
The Orunodoi Scheme, a direct benefit transfer programme aimed at economically disadvantaged women, will see the number of beneficiaries increase from 24 lakh in December 2023 to 37.2 lakh in the 2025-26 financial year. The final list of beneficiaries for the scheme is expected by March 31, except for the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR), where selections will be made later.
The government has allocated ₹5,000 crore for this scheme, with the monthly assistance raised from ₹1,250 to ₹1,400.
Also, Lakhpati Baideo scheme has been given an allocation of ₹250 crore. This initiative will provide interest-free loans, mentoring support, and financial assistance to women-led startups and Self-Help Groups (SHGs), encouraging entrepreneurship and economic self-sufficiency.
Additionally, the Women Start-up Fund will offer financial grants to promote women-led businesses.
Education, Employment & Skill Development
In the educational sector, the government has announced the establishment of nine women’s colleges and 21 model residential schools in minority-concentrated areas.
A working women’s hostel, with an investment of ₹142 crore, is also set to be constructed under the Jagiroad Satellite Township project, as it plans to provide safe accommodation for employed women.
Healthcare & Social Welfare Initiatives
To strengthen maternal healthcare, the Matri Suraksha Yojana has been expanded, offering ₹10,000 to pregnant women from economically weaker sections for hospital deliveries. This is in addition to free maternal healthcare services such as C-sections and neonatal care.
The government has also proposed an increase in nutrition support under the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) for pregnant and lactating mothers.
A statewide helpline and counseling centre will also be set up to provide mental health support to women facing psychological stress, workplace issues, or domestic challenges.
Women’s Safety & Social Security
To improve women’s safety, the Sakhi One-Stop Centres, which provide legal, medical, and psychological assistance to survivors of domestic violence and abuse, will be expanded to all districts.
Furthermore, the government has introduced the Shakti Sadan Scheme, which will establish short-term shelter homes for women in vulnerable situations, including victims of trafficking and domestic violence.
As for enhancing security in public spaces, key initiatives include deployment of additional women police personnel in urban and rural areas, installation of CCTV cameras in public transport and crowded areas, and fast-track courts to ensure quicker justice in crimes against women.
Housing & Pension Support for Women
Under the Mukhya Mantri Mahila Awas Yojana, one lakh houses will be constructed for widows and single women from low-income backgrounds. The scheme also includes subsidised home loans for first-time women property buyers.
Finally, a Pension Scheme for Widows and Single Women has been introduced to provide financial stability to women without a regular income source.
