Bhubaneswar, Feb. 3 -- Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government formally launched the Mukhyamantri Kanya Bibaha Yojana on February 3 to promote social reform and support marriages among economically weaker sections of society.

The scheme has been designed to curb child marriage, discourage the practice of dowry, and promote widow remarriage across the state. Under the initiative, each eligible couple will receive financial assistance of Rs 51,000 from the state government.

Of the total amount, Rs.35,000 will be directly transferred to the bride's bank account after registration of the marriage. An additional Rs 10,000 will be provided in the form of wedding essentials, including sarees, ornaments, and household items. The remaining Rs.6,000 w...