Bhubaneswar: In a boost to women’s entrepreneurship, the Odisha government on Tuesday refunded Rs 117.12 crore in interest to over 2.24 lakh self-help groups (SHGs) under its ‘Interest Refund to Self-Help Groups’ scheme.
The refund was made at a special event held at Mission Shakti Bhawan in Bhubaneswar.
Speaking at the event, Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida highlighted the state government’s commitment to empowering women through livelihood-focused
economic programs.
“Our schemes are aimed at strengthening self-help groups, expanding market opportunities, and promoting entrepreneurship among women,” she said.
Officials said that the interest refund scheme is part of the state government’s effort to reduce financial burdens on SHGs. Under the scheme, the annual interest on loans up to Rs 10 lakh has been reduced to zero, with the refunded amount directly credited to the groups’ bank accounts.
The event was also attended by Mission Shakti Department Director Monica Priyadarshini, Additional Secretary Jyotishankar Mohapatra, senior officers of Odisha Livelihood Mission, and bank representatives.
As per officials, this move reflects the state government’s commitment to women’s economic and social empowerment, fostering skill development and financial independence for women-led enterprises.