Odisha Governor Launches Initiative to Boost Enrollment in Social Welfare Schemes

Odisha's Governor, Hari Babu Kambhampati, has raised concerns about the low enrollment rates in government social welfare schemes. He has initiated a campaign to enroll Raj Bhavan officials and staff, aiming to set an example for the public. The governor highlighted the importance of various welfare programs and called for increased awareness, particularly among educated communities. He proposed awareness campaigns in educational institutions to further educate citizens about these benefits. This initiative seeks to motivate eligible individuals across the state to take advantage of the financial protections available to them.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 23, 2025, 20:02 IST

Governor's Call to Action for Social Welfare Enrollment

Bhubaneswar: The Governor of Odisha, Hari Babu Kambhampati, raised alarms on Monday regarding the insufficient participation of citizens in government-sponsored social welfare initiatives.

He initiated a campaign aimed at enrolling officials and staff at Raj Bhavan into these programs.

During an awareness event focused on Social Security schemes held at Raj Bhavan, the governor noted that since Prime Minister Narendra Modi took office, the government has introduced numerous welfare initiatives aimed at benefiting the populace.

These initiatives are designed to provide financial security and welfare advantages to the underprivileged, vulnerable, and marginalized groups, while also catering to the general public.

Kambhampati expressed concern that a significant number of eligible individuals in Odisha are missing out on these benefits due to a lack of awareness. He pointed out that even among educated and affluent communities, many remain unenrolled despite being informed about the schemes.

To lead by example and inspire community involvement, the governor declared that all Raj Bhavan officials and staff would be registered in the applicable social welfare programs. "This initiative aims to encourage citizens throughout the state to take advantage of the benefits available to them," he stated.

He emphasized the importance of flagship programs such as the Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY), Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY), Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana, and Atal Pension Yojana, urging the public to utilize these offerings for their financial stability and welfare.

Kambhampati proposed launching awareness campaigns in educational institutions to inform students about the advantages of these schemes. He also recommended that public organizations play a crucial role in disseminating this information.

During the session, Sunita Behera, the Branch Manager of the State Bank of India at Raj Bhavan, provided insights into the various schemes. As a symbolic gesture to kick off the enrollment drive, the governor presented application forms for 101 Raj Bhavan staff members to the SBI Branch Manager for their registration in the respective programs.