Bhubaneswar: Odisha is set to witness one of its largest social welfare drives as the state government organizes 190 mass marriages under the Mukhyamantri Kanya Bibaha Yojana, a scheme designed to support girls from poor families and discourage dowry practices.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced that the programme will take place on March 12 and 13 across multiple districts. In Cuttack, 50 couples will wed in a ceremony. Similar events are scheduled in Balasore (40 marriages), Mayurbhanj (50 marriages), and Sundargarh (50 marriages). The scheme's first phase was earlier launched in Ganjam district.
Each eligible bride will receive financial assistance of Rs 51,000, including Rs 35,000 directly transferred to her bank account within seven days of marriage registration, Rs 10,000 in gifts, and Rs 6,000 for wedding arrangements.
The scheme applies to brides aged 18 and above, with both partners required to be Odisha residents. Widows remarrying are also eligible.
The Women and Child Development Department has issued guidelines, and an MoU with Utkalika has been signed to ensure smooth implementation. Officials say the initiative reflects the government's commitment to women's welfare and reducing financial burdens on poor households.