When the Government of Assam rolled out Orunodoi 3.0, it was not just another welfare scheme, it became a renewed promise of empowerment, dignity and financial stability for women across the State. This time, the scheme has expanded and extended to 38 lakh families.
Under Orunodoi 3.0, eligible women beneficiaries receive ₹1,250 per month directly into their bank accounts. The scheme, part of the Government’s inclusive development agenda, ensures that every woman irrespective of caste, creed or religion gets a financial independence to support her family and closed ones.
For 65-year-old Saraswati Deka of Khudhasankra village in Nalbari district, the scheme has brought a sense of relief and self-assurance. A senior citizen and head of her family, while speaking to Asom Barta said, “The Orunodoi amount may seem less to many, but for us, it’s a blessing. Every rupee helps me run the household. I can now buy medicines, groceries and sometimes even save a little for emergencies.”
For women like Saraswati, Orunodoi 3.0 isn’t just a monthly transfer—it represents empowerment, security, and the dignity of being able to contribute meaningfully to their family’s well-being.
A few hundred kilometres away from Nalbari, in the tea gardens of upper Assam, the scheme’s impact is equally visible. Lakhipriya Chawra, 45, a tea plucker at the Pathalibam Tea Estate in Dibrugarh has been a beneficiary since the launch of the new phase.
“Every day, we earn around ₹250 as daily wage, however with this extra ₹1,250 per month, at least we can afford to take 2–3 days off during illness or emergencies without worrying about earnings. This also helps my husband, who does a small scale business. My earnings now add more value to our home.”
Lakhipriya is also planning to save money every month from the scheme for a better future of her children.
Further south, in the lush green stretches of Duarbond in Cachar district, 49-year-old Meena Goala shares a similar sense of gratitude. Living with her husband and two children, Meena has always struggled to make ends meet with
Because of her husband’s meagre daily earnings.
“This Government support means a lot to us,” she says. “We are a four-member family, and the expenses are never-ending. The Orunodoi money will help us buy things during need. We are truly thankful to the Government for thinking about families like ours.”
After rolling out of the ambitious scheme, Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma said in his speech, “Orunodoi 3.0 is the largest anti-poverty initiative in Assam’s history. Each beneficiary will now receive ₹1,250 per month, including an additional ₹250 subsidy on the purchase of LPG cylinders.”
The Chief Minister added that the scheme has significantly helped thousands of households overcome poverty and live a life of dignity. “With Orunodoi, we have laid a comprehensive support net for our people that aligns with the spirit of Antyodaya,” he said, reaffirming the Government’s commitment to ensure that no poor family is left out.”
He announced that a “special surprise” for beneficiaries will be unveiled in February.
In addition to Orunodoi, the Assam Government continues to offer free rice, subsidised pulses and LPG cylinders, free education, incentives for girl child education, and free healthcare facilities under various welfare programmes.
Meanwhile, the stories of Saraswati, Lakhi Priya and Meena echo across countless homes where women are finding renewed strength and self-worth. It is not just about money, as they say, “rather it is about respect, support, and hope for a better tomorrow.”
