Azamgarh (Uttar Pradesh), Feb 11 (NationPress) The ‘Lakhpati Didi’ scheme introduced by the Centre is proving to be a transformative force for women in Uttar Pradesh’s Azamgarh district. Beneficiaries are sharing inspiring stories of entrepreneurship, economic empowerment, and newfound confidence, particularly among women from economically disadvantaged, Dalit, and marginalized communities.

Women involved with various self-help groups (SHGs) in the region attribute their newfound livelihoods and financial independence to the BJP’s double-engine government.

In a statement to IANS, Azamgarh District Magistrate Ravindra Kumar emphasized that the effective execution of welfare schemes at the grassroots level is a primary focus of the administration. "As an administrator, the government expects us to address public grievances, ensure the effective implementation of government schemes, and maintain law and order," he remarked.

He further noted that ongoing efforts have been made to facilitate smooth governance, resolve public issues, and manage land-related disputes, which have significantly improved. Nonetheless, he acknowledged that this is a continuous process requiring active engagement from the administration.

At the grassroots level, beneficiaries of the ‘Lakhpati Didi’ scheme recounted how it has dramatically changed their lives.

Sunita, the President of the Chandni Self-Help Group from Daulatpur, shared that she received Rs 80,000 under the scheme and launched a beauty parlour and a tailoring center. "I now earn approximately Rs 1.5 lakh annually. Joining the group has made me self-sufficient. We felt trapped before, but now we feel empowered and liberated. Nearly 150 women in our village have benefited from this initiative," she said.

Shanti Singh Chauhan, the Treasurer of the Aakash Self-Help Group from Rani Ki Sarai, expressed that being part of the group has granted her a new identity. "I have gained up to Rs 1.25 lakh through this program. I am sincerely grateful to the Yogi government and hope this initiative continues,” she added.

Sharda Devi, Treasurer of the Maa Sharda Self-Help Group from Pandha village, mentioned that she established a crockery shop and now operates a refreshment center and a Jan Seva Kendra. "I wholeheartedly thank the Yogi and Modi governments for their impactful initiatives aimed at women," she stated.

A Lakhpati Didi refers to a member of a Self-Help Group (SHG) earning an annual household income of Rs 1 lakh or more. Since the inception of the Lakhpati Didi initiative, over one crore SHG women have achieved the status of Lakhpati Didi, with the government now aiming to enable three crore women to reach this milestone.