The Sahajog Initiative, launched by the Odisha government on May 1, 2025, is a transformative program designed to uplift the urban poor by connecting them with essential government welfare schemes. Targeting 15 lakh residents across 44 Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) in eight districts, Sahajog ensures last-mile delivery of services, aligning with the vision of Viksit Odisha and Viksit Bharat.
Key Points:
- Launched on May 1, 2025, in campaign mode until June 20, 2025.
- Covers eight districts: Khordha, Cuttack, Ganjam, Sundargarh, Sambalpur, Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, and Bhadrak.
- Aims to bridge the gap between urban poor and welfare schemes.
Core Objectives of Sahajog
Sahajog focuses on making government schemes accessible to economically disadvantaged urban communities. By addressing barriers like lack of awareness and complex application processes, it promotes poverty alleviation and social empowerment.
Key Points:
- Enhances awareness of welfare schemes.
- Simplifies application processes for beneficiaries.
- Delivers services directly to doorsteps for maximum reach.
Welfare Schemes Under Sahajog
The initiative facilitates access to 14 critical government welfare schemes, addressing housing, healthcare, food security, and financial inclusion. These schemes are tailored to improve the quality of life for urban poor families.
Key Points:
- Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban): Affordable housing solutions.
- Ayushman Bharat: Free healthcare coverage.
- National Food Security Act: Subsidized rations for food security.
- Subhadra Yojana: Financial support for women.
- E-Shram Card: Social security for unorganized workers.
- Other schemes include pensions, insurance, and clean water access.
How Sahajog Operates
Sahajog adopts a community-driven approach, leveraging volunteers, frontline workers, Self-Help Groups (SHGs), and NGOs to ensure effective outreach. Interdepartmental committees at state and district levels streamline operations, making it a model for urban governance.
Key Points:
- Volunteers and community groups assist with awareness and applications.
- Performance-based incentives for workers ensure accountability.
- District Collectors lead coordination for efficient service delivery.
Impact on Urban Poor Communities
By connecting 15 lakh residents with welfare schemes, Sahajog addresses critical needs like housing, healthcare, and financial stability. It empowers vulnerable groups, including women, the elderly, and disabled individuals, fostering economic empowerment and social inclusion.
Key Points:
- Targets 15 lakh urban poor residents in the first phase.
- Focuses on doorstep delivery for accessibility.
- Contributes to Odisha’s sustainable urban development goals.
Future of Sahajog
Post its initial phase, Sahajog plans to expand to all ULBs in Odisha, incorporating beneficiary feedback to enhance effectiveness. Its scalability and alignment with Viksit Bharat position it as a blueprint for urban welfare programs nationwide.
Key Points:
- Expansion planned to cover all Odisha ULBs.
- Continuous improvements based on feedback.
- Potential to inspire similar initiatives across India.
Why Sahajog Matters
Sahajog is a beacon of hope for Odisha’s urban poor, breaking down systemic barriers to welfare access. By prioritizing community involvement and efficient governance, it sets a new standard for urban poverty alleviation and inclusive growth.
Key Points:
- Promotes social justice and economic upliftment.
- Redefines urban welfare through innovative delivery.
- Aligns with national goals for equitable development.
