Introduction of Transgender Community in Assam’s Orunodoi Scheme 3.0
In a significant step towards inclusivity and financial security for marginalized groups, the Assam government has included transgender individuals in its flagship poverty alleviation initiative, Orunodoi 3.0. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma launched the third phase of this scheme on Thursday, marking the first time that members of the transgender community will receive cash benefits. This move is part of a broader effort to extend support to vulnerable groups across the state, with the inclusion of other marginalized groups such as widows, differently-abled individuals (divyangs), and destitute women.
Under the Orunodoi 3.0 scheme, beneficiaries will receive ₹1,250 per month directly in their bank accounts, aiming to provide financial relief to families with an annual income of less than ₹2 lakh. The scheme will cover approximately 37.2 lakh families, starting from the early part of 2025. With this third edition, the state has taken a significant step towards achieving financial inclusion for all its citizens.
Expanded Beneficiary Base in Orunodoi 3.0
In his statement during the rollout, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma emphasized that Orunodoi 3.0 is a “more inclusive” version of the earlier schemes, and that its beneficiary base has been expanded across all 126 Assembly constituencies. The latest edition of the scheme focuses on empowering the most vulnerable sections of society, including transgender individuals, widows, people with disabilities, and other marginalized groups who have traditionally been excluded from such welfare programs.
Sarma also highlighted the integration of the scheme with other government welfare initiatives. “Along with cash benefits, ration cards and free health insurance under Ayushman Bharat will be provided to the beneficiaries. This holistic approach ensures not only financial security but also access to essential healthcare services,” he said. The government will allocate ₹467 crore per month to fund the scheme, providing a much-needed financial safety net for Assam’s most vulnerable populations.
Transgender Inclusion a Historic Move
The inclusion of transgender individuals in Orunodoi 3.0 is a historic move in Assam, reflecting the state’s efforts to create a more inclusive society. Assam has 414 registered transgender voters, according to the electoral data for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, but estimates suggest that the actual population is likely to be more than double that figure. By recognizing transgender individuals as a priority group for cash assistance and other welfare benefits, the government aims to address the economic disparities that have long marginalized this community.
The new guidelines for Orunodoi 3.0 also make widows, unmarried women over 45, divorced women, and deserted women eligible for the scheme. Additionally, the scheme extends support to individuals with disabilities as defined under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, regardless of their gender. Other beneficiaries include elderly or infirm women, including those residing in government-registered old age homes, as well as households where members suffer from serious health conditions such as HIV, thalassemia, haemophilia, cerebral palsy, leprosy, and autism spectrum disorder.
Ensuring Careful Beneficiary Selection and Financial Inclusion
The Assam government has emphasized that district authorities will take utmost care in the selection of beneficiaries for Orunodoi 3.0. The Chief Minister assured that those who are already receiving benefits under previous editions of the scheme will not be removed unless they no longer meet the updated eligibility criteria. The new guidelines have been meticulously crafted to ensure that the most vulnerable sections of society are not overlooked, with particular attention to the needs of individuals and families affected by health crises, disabilities, or homelessness.
Beneficiaries will also be able to access free food grains every month under the National Food Security Act (NFSA). Sarma revealed that an additional 12 lakh beneficiaries will be added to the NFSA, further strengthening the state’s commitment to eradicating hunger and poverty. The government will allocate an additional ₹440 crore per month for this initiative, ensuring that families with ration cards also receive free treatment under Ayushman Bharat, further easing their financial burdens.
Previous Editions of Orunodoi and Continued Expansion
The first phase of the Orunodoi scheme was launched on December 1, 2020, followed by its second edition on December 14, 2022, which provided benefits to 24.6 lakh families. The latest phase, Orunodoi 3.0, has added an additional 12.5 lakh beneficiaries, bringing the total number of beneficiaries to 37.2 lakh. The scheme’s continuous expansion demonstrates Assam’s dedication to improving the lives of its economically weaker citizens through direct financial aid and other government benefits.
In the context of Assam’s broader welfare initiatives, the Orunodoi scheme stands out as a key tool for poverty alleviation, with a focus on empowering women and marginalized communities. By making this financial assistance available to more groups, the government is addressing the multifaceted issues of poverty, hunger, and inequality.
A Step Towards a More Inclusive Society
The inclusion of the transgender community and other marginalized groups in Orunodoi 3.0 is a significant step towards creating a more equitable society in Assam. With direct cash transfers, access to free food grains, and health insurance benefits, the scheme aims to provide comprehensive support to families in need. The Assam government’s commitment to inclusivity is evident in its efforts to expand the reach of this program and ensure that no one is left behind.
As the rollout of Orunodoi 3.0 progresses, it is expected to uplift the lives of millions of vulnerable individuals and families, marking a major milestone in Assam’s poverty alleviation efforts. The holistic approach of integrating financial aid, health care, and food security sets a new benchmark for welfare programs in the state.
Also Read: Assam Revises Midday Meal Menu for Schools, Introduces 12 Nutritious Recipes to Boost Child Health
