In a significant move, the Assam government has raised the monthly assistance under its flagship Orunodoi scheme from Rs 1,250 to Rs 1,500. This increase is being framed as a special gift for the upcoming Durga Puja, benefiting thousands of women beneficiaries across the state. The adjustment will take effect in October, coinciding with the festive season.
The decision was taken by the Assam Cabinet at its meeting on Thursday. The enhanced amount will be paid to beneficiaries under the Orunodoi scheme for the month of October. The Cabinet also approved October 17, 2026, as an additional holiday for Durga Puja, taking the total number of notified Puja holidays to five.
The BJP-led Assam government relaunched the welfare scheme earlier this year as Orunodoi 3.0 following the Assembly elections held in April. Under the revamped scheme, eligible women receive Rs 1,250 per month through direct benefit transfer. Earlier in March, the government transferred Rs 9,000 each to around 40 lakh Orunodoi beneficiaries, involving a total outlay of approximately Rs 3,600 crore. The payment included instalments for the first four months of 2026 along with a special payout for Rongali Bihu. Cabinet Approves Rs 796.88-crore SWIFT Project
