THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU
BHUBANESWAR, APRIL 21, 2026
In a remarkable display of
social welfare and community support, Odisha witnessed the solemnisation of
nearly 1,000 marriages across 27 districts in a single day under the
Mukhyamantri Kanya Bibaha Yojana, reaffirming the state government’s commitment
to empowering families and promoting dignified marriage practices.
The large-scale initiative,
spearheaded by the Women and Child Development Department of the Odisha
Government, brought together couples from economically and socially vulnerable
backgrounds, enabling them to begin their marital journey with financial and
institutional support.
Deputy Chief Minister and
Minister of the department, Pravati Parida, graced the district-level programme
in Balasore as the chief guest. The ceremony, held at Padmavati Amusement Water
Park, saw 56 couples exchanging vows in a vibrant and culturally rich setting.
Addressing the gathering,
Parida expressed her joy over the successful organisation and lauded the
collective efforts that made the initiative impactful. She also urged parents
and the younger generation to take a firm stand against regressive practices
such as child marriage and dowry, emphasizing the importance of building a
progressive and equitable society.
The event was attended by
several prominent dignitaries, including Member of Parliament Pratap Chandra
Sarangi, State Women’s Commission Chairperson Sobhna Mohanty, Government Deputy
Chief Whip Gobinda Chandra Das, along with local MLAs and District Collector Surjyabanshi
Mayur Vikas. All dignitaries extended their blessings to the newly-wed couples,
marking the occasion with warmth and encouragement.
The Mukhyamantri Kanya Bibaha Yojana continues to serve as a vital
support system for families facing financial hardships or social pressures
related to marriage. Under the scheme, each eligible beneficiary receives
financial assistance of ₹60,000, of which ₹45,000 is directly
transferred to the beneficiary’s bank account through Direct Benefit Transfer
(DBT), while the remaining ₹15,000 is allocated towards organising and managing
the wedding ceremony.
