How Odisha's Lakhpati Didi Initiative Empowers Rural Women Financially

Empowering Women Through the Lakhpati Didi Initiative

Bhubaneswar: On Thursday, Odisha's Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced that the Lakhpati Didi initiative aims to provide financial independence and foster leadership qualities among women in rural areas.

Majhi emphasized that under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Lakhpati Didi Yojana enables women to earn over Rs 1 lakh annually. He made these remarks during the national conference for Lakhpati Didi, which saw participation from women beneficiaries and officials from 25 states and union territories.

The primary goal of this initiative extends beyond job creation; it seeks to empower women financially and cultivate leadership among them, he stated.

According to Majhi, the Lakhpati Didi program is not merely a welfare initiative but a comprehensive strategy aimed at fostering inclusive and sustainable growth.

He highlighted that Prime Minister Modi has implemented various measures to enhance women's political, social, and economic autonomy, including the passage of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam (Women’s Reservation Bill) to ensure 33% representation of women in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies in future elections.

Majhi noted that Odisha has successfully executed the Lakhpati Didi Mission, creating approximately 1.7 million Lakhpati Didis, placing the state at the forefront nationally.

He elaborated on the Odisha government's initiatives, stating that interest-free loans of up to Rs 10 lakh are now accessible to women in self-help groups (SHGs), with the revolving fund support increased from Rs 15,000.

Additionally, the community investment fund for SHGs has been raised from Rs 35 lakh to Rs 60 lakh, enabling members to advance their businesses and livelihoods with greater confidence.

Through the Subhadra Shakti Mela, women in SHGs are establishing their identities by engaging in businesses worth substantial amounts, which has significantly boosted their self-esteem. He also mentioned that the Subhadra Shakti Cafe has become a new livelihood model for SHG women.

Majhi reiterated his government's commitment to creating a supportive environment for the development of every woman in Odisha.

He stated, "We are dedicated to fostering women as entrepreneurs and leaders. Our vision is to transform Lakhpati Didi from a mere livelihood initiative into a movement for women's empowerment, self-sufficiency, and leadership."

Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida added that the Lakhpati Didi Yojana is instrumental in encouraging women to step outside their homes and engage in developmental activities.

She remarked, "Our rural women are excelling in various sectors such as agriculture, animal husbandry, and hospitality. This program has enabled them to earn for themselves and serve as role models for others."

Parida expressed optimism that these empowered women will play a crucial role in shaping a developed India and a prosperous Odisha.