In a major welfare announcement on the very first day of New Year, Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma declared that women beneficiaries under the Orunodoi scheme will receive a total financial assistance of Rs 8,000 which will be directly transferred to their bank accounts on February 20.
Calling it a special festive gift for the mothers and sisters of Assam the Chief Minister said, “The advance support has been introduced to strengthen livelihoods and help women from economically vulnerable families celebrate Bihu with dignity and happiness. The amount will be credited directly to the bank accounts of eligible beneficiaries on February 20, ahead of Rongali Bihu. This is a special festive gift for the mothers and sisters of Assam.”
The package includes ₹5,000 as Orunodoi support for the period from January to April, along with an additional ₹3,000 as a special Bohag Bihu gift. At present, women enrolled under the Orunodoi scheme receive ₹1,250 per month through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
The announcement was made during the Chief Minister’s interaction programme ‘Notun Dinor Alap’, where he also spoke on several welfare and development initiatives planned for the year. Extending New Year greetings to the people of Assam, Dr Sarma expressed hope that 2026 would bring “peace, progress, and prosperity” to the State.
Later, sharing the news on the social media platform X, the Chief Minister reiterated that Orunodoi beneficiaries would receive the advance Bohag Bihu gift as part of the government’s effort to strengthen household finances and fulfil yet another promise.
“All Orunodoi beneficiaries will receive the advance Bohag Bihu gift to strengthen household finances and fulfil another promise made by our government,” he wrote.
The decision has sparked widespread appreciation across Assam, especially among women beneficiaries who view the announcement as a much-needed boost before the festive season. Many said the additional amount would help them manage household expenses, buy new clothes for their children, and prepare for Bihu celebrations without the usual financial strain.
Runuma Devi, a beneficiary from Mangoldoi, said, “The announcement has brought immense relief to women like her who struggle to balance everyday household needs.”
“This decision by Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma is truly a blessing for families like ours. We always want to celebrate Bohag Bihu like everyone else, but money becomes a big problem. With this assistance, this year instead of waiting for my husband I can buy clothes for my children and also keep something aside for household groceries,” Runuma Devi said.
She added that getting the support in advance makes a big difference. “Usually, by the time Bihu comes, we are already worried about expenses. This time, we will be able to plan properly and celebrate with happiness and dignity.”
Echoing similar sentiment, Srimati Deb of Hailakandi praised the Government’s move, calling it a gesture that recognises the role women play in sustaining households and keeping traditions alive.
“I sincerely thank the Chief Minister for thinking about mothers and sisters of Assam in such a practical way. During Bohag Bihu, we also celebrate Poila Boishak and these festivals are an emotional time for every family. This financial support will help us manage our daily needs and celebrate the festival without borrowing money,” she added.
Deb also pointed out that for many families, Bihu expenses often mean cutting down on essentials, “When the festive season comes, we want to cook good food, buy something new for the children, and invite relatives. But when income is limited, even small celebrations become difficult. This assistance will help many women like me feel less burdened.”
With the State gearing up for the festival, the announcement is being seen as more than just financial assistance; it is being viewed as an initiative that empowers women, acknowledges their contribution to family life and ensures that the spirit of Bihu reaches every household, regardless of economic status.
