Lakhpati Didi Yojana: A Revolutionary Step for Women's Empowerment in Surguja, Chhattisgarh
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Raipur, March 1 (NationPress) The Lakhpati Didi Yojana, initiated by the Modi government, aims to uplift and empower women, especially those in rural areas, thereby transforming the aspirations of countless middle-class farmers and their families.
In Surguja district of Chhattisgarh, the lives of women in rural communities have significantly improved as they are transitioning from traditional stoves to gas cylinders and are also becoming economically independent and entrepreneurial.
Women here are starting their own ventures and marketing local products globally to compete with larger corporations.
The district administration of Surguja has introduced an innovative initiative for women’s development.
A marketplace called Asha Bihan Bazaar has been established, showcasing and beautifully packaging products made by women from self-help groups. These items are now available not only in local shops but also on e-commerce platforms. A standout feature is the Chhattis Kala brand, which enables products crafted in various regions of the state to be marketed in different districts.
Through the Lakhpati Didi Yojana, Asha Devi received a loan of Rs 5 lakh from the National Rural Livelihood Mission, facilitating her journey towards self-sufficiency.
Asha Devi, hailing from Kishun Nagar village in Surguja, shared that they previously lacked a permanent venue to sell their goods. However, with the assistance of a Rs 5 lakh loan from the District Panchayat under the Lakhpati Didi Yojana, they successfully launched their shop named Asha Bihan.
In this Bihan Bazaar, they offer pure products sourced from their village, all crafted by the Didis of the group. Available items include moringa powder, mustard oil, cumin flower rice, and tikhur flour.
District Panchayat CEO Vinay Agarwal noted that while the Bihan Didis in Surguja district produce a diverse array of goods, they lacked the necessary platform and effective branding that would allow their products to gain the same market visibility as others. Consequently, these products are now being sold in appealing packaging under the brand 'Chattis Kala'.