Empowering Women Through the Lakhpati Didis Initiative
On Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Jalgaon, Maharashtra, where he honored 1.1 million Lakhpati Didis. This initiative aims to economically empower women, and during this event, PM Modi praised the scheme and announced a ₹2,500 crore fund that will benefit around 4.3 lakh Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and nearly 48 lakh members. Additionally, he distributed ₹5,000 crore in bank loans, which will assist 2.35 lakh SHGs and 25.8 lakh members.
Women Sharing Their Experiences
During his visit, PM Modi interacted with women who shared their experiences with the program. He expressed his ambition, saying, “1 crore didis have become Lakhpati Didis, and I want to make 3 crore more.” He posted a video on social media highlighting the transformation brought about by the Lakhpati Didi scheme, emphasizing that it is changing women’s lives.
Becoming Self-Reliant through the Scheme
When PM Modi asked about the conversations between Lakhpati Didis and those who are not yet part of the initiative, a woman responded, stating that the financial stability and experiences of Lakhpati Didis are distinctly different. They achieve self-reliance, effectively managing their family expenses. Notably, some Lakhpati Didis reported significant earning potential, such as one who earns between ₹3 to ₹4 lakh annually, including two differently-abled women who have started businesses in traditional items.
Job Opportunities Created by the Scheme
Another woman shared that she earns around ₹8 lakh per year and has empowered 207 women to achieve Lakhpati status as well. She proudly stated, “I have transformed from zero to hero.” Women from various regions across the country attended the event. One woman expressed her gratitude to PM Modi, recognizing his vital role in facilitating the job opportunities they received through the scheme. She added that when her children were asked at school about her whereabouts, they proudly replied that their mother was meeting with ‘Maharashtra Modi Ji.’
Diverse Self-Help Groups
These women manage various Self-Help Groups focused on different activities, including assisting women in opening bank accounts, collaborating with 500 farmers, and lending money to individuals. One woman highlighted her Farmer Producer Organization (FPO), which includes 15,800 women farmers, each earning a commission of ₹50,000 to ₹60,000. Another woman noted she works with 500 drone pilots, to which PM Modi remarked on how they must be referred to as “drone didis” in their villages.
Gaining Respect Through Participation
A participant shared her experience of being from the Muslim community, where societal norms restricted her from venturing out. She mentioned that after joining an SHG, she has become a Lakhpati Didi, highlighting the respect and recognition gained through the program. Another woman mentioned that she helped create 470 Lakhpati Didis.
Insights from Jammu and Kashmir
Rabia Bashir from Kupwara, Jammu and Kashmir, shared her journey from running a dairy farm with an annual income of ₹1.2 lakh to becoming a Lakhpati. She indicated her responsibility for the care of 10 animals and mentioned that she has also uplifted 160 women to achieve Lakhpati status.
Future Growth of Lakhpati Didis
PM Modi expressed optimism, stating that after listening to the women’s stories, he believes the number of Lakhpati Didis in the country is set to increase exponentially. He encouraged them to share their experiences with others, emphasizing how participation in this initiative could lead to self-reliance, family support, and a transformative impact on their communities.
Conclusion
The Lakhpati Didis initiative is more than just a financial empowerment program; it is reshaping the social fabric by encouraging women to step forward, share their talents, and transform their lives. With the support of the government and the resilience of these women, the program is paving the way for a more equal and prosperous society.
