During the Interim Budget 2024-25 session, Union Minister for Finance & Corporate Affairs, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, announced plans to expand the Lakhpati Didi initiative, aiming to empower 3 crore women, up from the current target of 2 crore. The scheme, under the poverty alleviation program DAY-NRLM, aims to address economic disparities and promote self-sufficiency among women.
Scheme Advantages
The Lakhpati Didi Initiative, part of the poverty alleviation program DAY-NRLM, focuses on enhancing the economic status of women through skill development and various livelihood activities. By encouraging Self-Help Groups (SHGs) to engage in income-generating activities, the scheme aims to uplift women in rural areas.
Benefits of the Scheme
Under the Lakhpati Didi initiative, women receive training in various skills such as plumbing, LED bulb making, tailoring, and weaving. Upon completion of training, they are provided opportunities to earn income using their acquired skills, contributing to their financial stability and independence.
Data Insights
Enhanced Target : The target for Lakhpati Didi has been increased from 2 crore to 3 crore women, reflecting the government’s commitment to addressing gender disparities and promoting women’s economic empowerment.
Current Success : Currently, 83 lakh SHGs with nine crore women are participating in the initiative, with nearly 1 crore women already achieving the status of ‘Lakhpati Didi.’ These women serve as role models in their communities, inspiring others to pursue economic independence.
Financial Inclusion : The government’s broader efforts in women’s empowerment include the distribution of 30 crore Mudra Yojana loans to women entrepreneurs, totaling Rs 22.5 lakh crore. Additionally, PM Awas Yojana (Grameen) aims to ensure housing ownership for women in rural areas, recognizing their contribution to household welfare.
The expansion of the Lakhpati Didi scheme aims to address economic disparities and promote self-sufficiency among women in rural areas, contributing to their overall empowerment and well-being.
