Bhubaneswar, April 15: In a major step toward empowering women and promoting self-reliance, the Odisha government has extended the interest-free loan scheme for Women’s Self-Help Groups (SHGs), allowing them to avail loans of up to ₹10 lakh without any interest. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi approved the continuation of this flagship scheme for the financial year 2025-26 and beyond.

Originally set to conclude on March 31, 2025, the extension ensures that thousands of SHGs across the state will continue to benefit from easy access to credit without the burden of interest. The decision underscores the government’s strong focus on women’s entrepreneurship, rural empowerment, and inclusive economic growth.

Chief Minister Majhi emphasized that the scheme will play a vital role in nurturing ‘Lakhpati Didis’—women earning over ₹1 lakh annually—thereby strengthening both rural and urban economies through increased participation of women in income-generating activities.

By reducing financial barriers, the state hopes to accelerate women-led enterprises, boost self-employment, and contribute meaningfully to Odisha’s economic development and social progress.

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