Odisha Govt to Hike Old Age, Widow, Disability Allowance to Rs 3000

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has decided to increase the old age, widow and disability allowances in the state to Rs 3000. The process for its implementation has been initiated, said Social Security & Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (SSEPD) Minister Nityananda Gond.

The revised payment of allowances will come into force after a detailed consultation with the Finance department, he said.

According to him, discussion regarding budgetary provisions for the purpose is continuing with the Finance department.

Odisha government provides allowances under the Madhubabu Pension Scheme to the beneficiaries deprived of National Social Security. In February, it was hiked to Rs 1000 from Rs 500. Gond, who is also in-charge of School and Mass Education department, further said that the state government is planning to reopen schools closed during previous BJD government.

He said the Department Secretary has been asked to prepare a report and based on this the government will take steps to reopen schools wherever necessary.