Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently honored the efforts of women across the nation by felicitating 11 lakh women who have become "Lakhpati Didis" during the current government’s tenure at the Jalgaon Sammelan, Maharashtra, where he These women, members of Self-Help Groups (SHGs), have achieved financial stability and independence through various government initiatives. The event also witnessed the disbursement of significant funds aimed at further empowering women, reinforcing the government’s commitment to their upliftment.
At the Sammelan, Prime Minister Modi handed out certificates to the new Lakhpati Didis and interacted with them, acknowledging their contributions to society. He released a Revolving Fund of Rs 2,500 crores, benefiting approximately 48 lakh members of 4.3 lakh SHGs. Additionally, he sanctioned bank loans amounting to Rs 5,000 crores, benefiting 25.8 lakh members of 2.35 lakh SHGs. This initiative is part of the Lakhpati Didi Yojana, which aims to create three crore Lakhpati Didis, with one crore women already achieving this milestone.
The Prime Minister began his address by expressing his gratitude to the large crowd of mothers and sisters present at the event. He also extended condolences to the victims of a tragic bus accident in Tanahun, Nepal, which claimed the lives of several people from Jalgaon. Modi assured the audience that the government was providing all necessary assistance to the victims and their families, highlighting the government’s commitment to the welfare of its citizens.
Modi emphasized the significance of the event, noting that over Rs 6,000 crores had been disbursed to women SHGs across India. He expressed confidence that this financial support would enable many more women to become Lakhpati Didis, transforming the rural economy and empowering women to elevate their social standing and improve their families’ financial conditions.
Highlighting the rich cultural heritage of Maharashtra, the Prime Minister praised the women of the state for their resilience and contributions to society. He spoke about the historical significance of Maharashtra’s women, citing examples like Mata Jijabai, who shaped Chhatrapati Shivaji’s life, and Savitribai Phule, a pioneer in women’s education. Modi drew parallels between these historical figures and the contemporary women of Maharashtra, who continue to inspire the nation with their strength and determination.
Modi also addressed the broader issue of women’s empowerment in India. He pointed out that despite India’s growing economy, women had historically been neglected, particularly in terms of property ownership and access to financial resources. He highlighted the government’s efforts to rectify this imbalance, such as registering houses for the poor in the names of women and opening bank accounts for women under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana. He noted that about 70% of the beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana are women, further underscoring the government’s focus on empowering women.
The Prime Minister discussed the success of women’s self-help groups, which have become a powerful force in India’s economy. He noted that ten crore women have joined this movement in the last decade, and the government has facilitated the provision of low-interest loans to these groups, with the amount sanctioned rising from less than Rs 25,000 crores in 2014 to Rs 9 lakh crores over the last ten years.
In his concluding remarks, Prime Minister Modi reiterated the government’s commitment to the safety and empowerment of women. He emphasized that the government is making laws stricter to protect women and ensure swift justice for those who commit crimes against them. Modi also highlighted new initiatives like the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS), which includes provisions for e-FIRs and stringent penalties for crimes against women and children.
Furthermore, Prime Minister called for a stable government in Maharashtra, highlighting the need for continued focus on education, skills, and employment for the youth. He expressed confidence that the women of Maharashtra would play a crucial role in the state's progress and stability.
