Is India on the Path to 3 Crore Lakhpati Didis? - Shivraj Singh Chouhan
Synopsis
Shivraj Singh Chouhan announces India's aim to reach 3 crore Lakhpati Didis, celebrating rural women's leadership and empowerment through SHGs. This initiative highlights the government's commitment to gender equality and economic growth, urging women to take active roles in political leadership and entrepreneurial endeavors.
Key Takeaways
India aims to increase the number of Lakhpati Didis to 3 crore .
Over 400 Lakhpati Didis were recognized for their contributions.
The government emphasizes gender equality and women's empowerment.
DAY-NRLM plays a crucial role in enhancing women's access to resources.
Women are encouraged to engage in grassroots political leadership.
New Delhi, Jan 25 (NationPress) Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced on Sunday that India is advancing from over 2 crore to 3 crore Lakhpati Didis. During a ceremony, he honored more than 400 Lakhpati Didis, PMAY-G beneficiaries, and SHG leaders for their invaluable contributions to enhancing rural livelihoods, community frameworks, and inclusive growth in line with the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047.
In his keynote address, Chouhan reiterated that Republic Day symbolizes a celebration of the populace and the inspiring stories of Lakhpati Didis emerging from Self Help Groups.
He welcomed SHG women nationwide, commending their confidence, leadership, and efforts in uplifting their peers.
Stressing that a wealthy nation relies on empowered women, he highlighted the transformative impact of DAY–NRLM in providing access to credit, livelihood opportunities, and collective empowerment.
The minister emphasized the importance of gender equality, social progress, and the necessity to confront discriminatory practices, referencing initiatives like Ladli Lakshmi Yojana and Beti Bachao Beti Padhao.
He encouraged SHG networks to enhance the last-mile implementation of government programs, broaden livelihood options, endorse organic farming, and establish market connections.
Chouhan expressed commitment to facilitating individual access to bank linkages, thereby fostering entrepreneurship and self-sufficiency.
He called for greater social and political change, inviting women from SHGs to take initiative and reinforce their roles in grassroots political leadership.
Reiterating that women serve as equal partners in nation-building, he urged collective actions toward women-driven rural development and led a pledge to pursue social transformation.
Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani, Minister of State for Rural Development and Communications, asserted that women's empowerment is a national priority, highlighting their critical role in nation-building.
He pointed out that women are not just beneficiaries but essential contributors to the economy, with one in four MSMEs being led by women.
The minister also stressed the role of DAY–NRLM in establishing market linkages, including through popular e-commerce platforms, and noted that rural women are increasingly engaging in value chains and utilizing digital resources to connect with markets.
Point of View
I affirm that this initiative reflects a significant step towards women's empowerment in India. The government's focus on Lakhpati Didis highlights the crucial role women play in rural development and economic growth, reinforcing the necessity for inclusive strategies that elevate their status in society.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Lakhpati Didis?
Lakhpati Didis represent women who have achieved financial independence through self-help groups, playing a vital role in rural development.
How does DAY-NRLM contribute to women's empowerment?
DAY-NRLM facilitates access to credit, livelihood opportunities, and promotes collective empowerment among women.
What initiatives support women's leadership in India?
Initiatives like Ladli Lakshmi Yojana and Beti Bachao Beti Padhao aim to promote gender equality and empower women in various sectors.
