Odisha Empowers Women: Rs 117 Crore Interest-Free Boost for SHGs
Bhubaneswar, Nov 18: In a landmark step toward women’s empowerment, the Odisha government has disbursed Rs 117 crore in interest subvention to Self-Help Groups (SHGs) across the state.
The initiative, announced at Mission Shakti Bhawan, aims to ease the financial burden on women-led enterprises by offering zero-interest loans up to Rs 10 lakh.
Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, who presided over the program titled “Interest Return to Self-Help Groups”, emphasised the government’s commitment to livelihood-based economic models.
She highlighted that bank loans are a crucial pillar in promoting entrepreneurship among SHG members, and the interest-free provision will encourage more women to pursue sustainable ventures.
A total of 2,24,884 SHGs received direct credit of the subvention amount into their accounts, strengthening their financial base and expanding market opportunities.
Senior officials, including Mission Shakti Director Dr. Monika Priyadarshini, Additional Secretary Jyoti Shankar Mohapatra, representatives from Odisha Livelihoods Mission, and banking partners attended the event.
This initiative underscores the Mission Shakti Department’s dedication to skill development, financial inclusion, and women-led entrepreneurship, marking another milestone in Odisha’s journey toward inclusive economic growth.
