Bhubaneswar: The number of destitute women, including many abandoned by husbands, is on the rise in Odisha.
Sharing this information in the Assembly on Saturday, Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida said that a total of 11,598 such women have been identified across the state this year.
As per the official data, Balangir district has reported the highest number of destitute and abandoned women, with 3,729 cases being recorded.
In view of the social and economic challenges being faced by these women, the state government is taking steps for their rehabilitation and empowerment.
The state government has initiated livelihood and skill development training programs for affected women, the Deputy CM said, adding that efforts are being made to equip these women with vocational skills, enabling them to become financially independent and reintegrate into society with dignity.
The increase in the number of destitute and abandoned women reflects a larger societal issue, necessitating policy-level reforms and stronger support systems.
