DAY-NRLM Advances PM's Vision of Empowering 3 Crore 'Lakhpati Didis'

In alignment with the Prime Minister's vision to create three crore "Lakhpati Didis," the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana - National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) held a National Stakeholders Consultative Workshop focused on integrating Women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) into service sector enterprises. This workshop aimed to empower women economically and support their journey to becoming financially independent.

Charanjit Singh, Additional Secretary of Rural Livelihoods, inaugurated the workshop, calling it a landmark event. He highlighted the mission’s commitment to the Lakhpati Didis initiative, noting the potential of the service sector, which accounts for about 50% of the GDP and 31% of employment. Singh highlighted the importance of creating sub-schemes that could widen the SHGs' engagement in the service sector, thereby enhancing their economic opportunities.

Swati Sharma, Joint Secretary of Rural Livelihoods, contextualized the workshop within the broader vision set by the Prime Minister on August 15, 2023. Following his recent interaction with Lakhpati Didis on March 11, 2024, the mission is determined to turn this vision into reality. Sharma highlighted the shift towards demand-based economic activities, with DAY-NRLM playing a pivotal role in guiding and training SHG members to establish successful service sector enterprises.

Smriti Sharan, another Joint Secretary, stressed the importance of convergence in realizing the Lakhpati Didis initiative. She reiterated that collaboration among various partners would be essential for the economic transformation of SHG members.

The workshop aimed to explore the current opportunities and challenges faced by women SHGs in the service sector. It focused on identifying best practices and successful models to integrate women into service enterprises effectively. Participants included representatives from eleven ministries, ten State Rural Livelihoods Missions, and various stakeholders, including Sector Skill Councils and Technical Support Agencies. The event featured vibrant discussions and active participation, leading to a roadmap for future strategies.

In conclusion, R. S. Rekhi, a consultant in Rural Livelihoods, summarized the key takeaways and the path forward based on insights from the workshop.