CM Majhi launches Kanya Bibaha Yojana with mass wedding of 200 couples

Ganjam: The ‘Mukhyamantri Kanya Bibaha Yojana’ scheme was formally launched Wednesday. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi inaugurated the scheme at the Taratarini Temple in Ganjam during his visit. On the occasion, a mass wedding ceremony for 200 couples was organised.

Ahead of the launch, the Chief Minister shared his views on social media, stating that safeguarding the interests of the people of Odisha—particularly ensuring a dignified life for women—is a key commitment of his government. He added that the scheme would provide strong financial support to ensure that the marriage of daughters does not remain a burden for parents from economically backward families, especially those belonging to Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.

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The chief minister further said the initiative is not limited to financial assistance alone, but also aims to eliminate social evils like dowry and promote a respectful and positive outlook towards the girl child in society.

According to provisions of the scheme, the state government will bear the entire expenses of the wedding and also provide financial assistance to the couples.

Each bride will receive financial support of Rs 51,000, of which Rs 35,000 will be transferred directly to her bank account through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system. An amount of Rs 6,000 will be earmarked for wedding-related expenses, while Rs 10,000 will be provided in the form of gifts.

The gift package, which was handed over to the 201 new brides, includes sarees, bangles, anklets, toe rings, alta, sindoor, and other traditional bridal adornments, along with household utility items such as utensils, cushions, and vessels.

Apart from Majhi, Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, who is also in charge of the Women and Child Development Department, lawmakers and senior officials were present at the event.

The government also arranged a community feast on the occasion.

The chief minister said that similar mass weddings would be organised across the state on fixed dates.

Each couple was provided with a marriage certificate, an official said.