Will the Bima Sakhi Yojana Create 2 Crore Lakhpati Didis in India?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Bima Sakhi Yojana empowers women through financial inclusion.
- Aim to create 2 crore Lakhpati Didis by August 15.
- Focus on enhancing women’s entrepreneurship.
- Partnership with LIC to ensure insurance access.
- Supports rural development and economic security.
New Delhi, July 26 (NationPress) Describing the Bima Sakhi Yojana as a transformative model of social security and women's empowerment, Union Minister for Rural Development and Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced on Saturday that this initiative is projected to generate 2 crore Lakhpati Didis across India.
The Bima Sakhi Yojana, introduced by the Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) in December 2024, aligns with the government's mission to uplift women and enhance their financial inclusion.
“The Bima Sakhi Yojana serves as a robust platform for fostering women’s entrepreneurship and promoting financial independence. It embodies our dedication to achieving the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat outlined by Prime Minister Modi,” stated Chouhan.
He underscored that the scheme's primary goal is to economically empower rural women.
By becoming Bima Sakhis, women are unlocking new avenues for entrepreneurship and income, thereby furthering the objectives of SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and the Lakhpati Didi Mission.
“By August 15, we anticipate that the nation will witness a total of 2 crore Lakhpati Didis across India,” Chouhan remarked.
The term 'Lakhpati Didi' refers to a woman from a Self-Help Group (SHG) earning an annual income of Rs 1 lakh or more.
Chouhan further announced that the Ministry of Rural Development has formed a significant partnership with LIC to fulfill the government’s ambition of ‘Insurance for All by 2047’.
In the context of the National Rural Livelihoods Mission’s financial inclusion initiative, trained women from SHGs nationwide will be designated as Bima Sakhis at the Gram Panchayat level.
“We have made a historic advancement with the launch of the Bima Sakhi Yojana under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership. This initiative not only marks a pivotal step towards women’s empowerment but also ensures economic security for rural and semi-urban India. The central government remains committed to empowering every woman in the country to become self-reliant and financially strong.”
In this inclusive insurance framework, Bima Sakhis are not merely expanding access to insurance products but also providing trust-based services that reach the most remote communities.
The Minister additionally pointed out that this initiative is in line with key governmental priorities and strengthens programs such as Jan-Dhan Se Jan Suraksha, Digital India, and women's skill development. Furthermore, this scheme will serve as a financial safeguard for rural families in disaster-stricken areas.
“Bima Sakhis are not just insurance representatives; they are champions of social change. They are illuminating the path to financial security in every village, resulting in stronger economies and more self-sufficient women,” Chouhan added.
He called on all states and partner organizations to join this grassroots movement and help disseminate the Bima Sakhi Yojana to every village and household.