Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday, January 1, announced that more than 37 lakh women beneficiaries under the Orunodoi scheme will receive an advance Bohag Bihu gift on February 20. The announcement was made during the Chief Minister’s customary New Year press conference, ‘Notun Dinor Alap’.
Each beneficiary will receive a total amount of ₹8,000, combining the regular Orunodoi assistance for four months with a special festive grant, aimed at supporting household needs ahead of Bohag Bihu.
Over 37 lakh women beneficiaries of Assam’s Orunodoi scheme will receive ₹8,000 on February 20 as an advance Bohag Bihu gift, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced. The amount includes ₹5,000 as Orunodoi assistance for January to April and a special ₹3,000 Bihu grant.
Breakdown of the ₹8,000 assistance
According to the official announcement, the total amount will be disbursed as follows:
- ₹5,000 as Orunodoi allowance covering January to April
- ₹3,000 as a special Bohag Bihu gift
The payment will be credited directly to the accounts of eligible beneficiaries under the scheme.
Official statement by the Chief Minister
Sharing the update on social media platform X, CM Sarma stated:
“A big news for over 37 lakh mothers and sisters of Assam. On February 20, all #Orunodoi beneficiaries will get an advance Bohag Bihu gift of ₹8,000 to boost their livelihoods.”
He added that the payment fulfils a commitment made by the state government to provide timely financial support ahead of the festive season.
About the Orunodoi scheme
The Orunodoi scheme is Assam’s flagship direct benefit transfer programme focused on supporting economically vulnerable women. The assistance is intended to help families meet essential household expenses, healthcare needs, and child welfare costs.
With over 37 lakh beneficiaries, Orunodoi remains one of the largest women-centric welfare schemes in the state.
Significance ahead of Bohag Bihu
Bohag Bihu marks the Assamese New Year and is one of the most important festivals in Assam. The advance payment is expected to help households prepare for the celebrations while easing financial pressure during the early months of the year.
Officials said the timing of the disbursement has been planned to ensure beneficiaries can use the funds effectively for festival-related and livelihood needs.
What happens next
The state government is expected to issue further operational instructions to banks and district administrations to ensure smooth and timely transfer of funds on February 20. Beneficiaries have been advised to ensure their bank account details linked to the scheme are active.
Any additional updates or clarifications will be communicated through official government channels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Eligible beneficiaries will receive the payment on February 20.
The amount includes ₹5,000 as Orunodoi assistance for January to April and a special ₹3,000 Bohag Bihu gift.
