Modi highlighted the massive financial outlay of over Rs 6,000 crore allocated to women’s SHGs across the nation and emphasized how these funds are expected to transform many women into Lakhpati Didis, enhancing their financial independence.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Lakhpati Didi Sammelan in Jalgaon on Sunday, celebrating the achievements of women who have recently joined the ranks of ‘Lakhpati Didis.’ During the event, Modi felicitated and presented certificates to 11 lakh new Lakhpati Didis, recognizing their financial success under the current government’s initiatives. The Prime Minister also interacted with the Lakhpati Didis and highlighted significant financial support being provided to women across India.
The event saw the release of a Revolving Fund amounting to Rs 2,500 crore, designed to benefit approximately 48 lakh members of 4.3 lakh Self-Help Groups (SHGs). Additionally, bank loans totalling Rs 5,000 crore were disbursed, aimed at aiding 25.8 lakh members of 2.35 lakh SHGs. Since the inception of the Lakhpati Didi Yojana, the government has created one crore Lakhpati Didis, with a target set to expand this number to three crore.
Modi commenced his speech by expressing his gratitude to the large gathering of women and extended condolences to the victims of the recent bus accident in Tanahun, Nepal, which affected several residents of Jalgaon. He noted that Union Minister Raksha Khadse was dispatched to Nepal immediately following the incident, and the remains of the deceased were returned to India by a special Air Force flight. Modi assured continued support from both the central and state governments for the victims and their families.
In his address, Modi highlighted the massive financial outlay of over Rs 6,000 crore allocated to women’s SHGs across the nation. He emphasized how these funds are expected to transform many women into Lakhpati Didis, enhancing their financial independence and contributing to the broader economic development of rural areas.
A transformative process
The Prime Minister praised Maharashtra’s rich cultural heritage and its global recognition. He reflected on his recent visit to Poland, where he observed that the traditions of Maharashtra, such as those commemorated by the Kolhapur Memorial, are well-respected internationally. Modi recounted the historical support provided by the people of Kolhapur to Polish refugees during World War II, attributing this to the enduring values of service and hospitality inspired by Shivaji Maharaj.
Modi acknowledged the ‘Matrushakti’ (Mother Power) of Maharashtra, drawing inspiration from historical figures like Mata Jijabai and Savitribai Phule, who have significantly influenced society and education. He praised the ongoing contributions of Maharashtra’s women, citing their role in enhancing the state’s and the nation’s development.
The Prime Minister noted that the creation of Lakhpati Didis is not merely an economic initiative but a transformative process for entire families. He pointed out that a single woman becoming a Lakhpati Didi elevates her family’s social status and increases their purchasing power. Modi underscored the importance of women’s empowerment in contributing to India’s growth as a major global economy, contrasting the current administration’s achievements with the previous decades of neglect in women’s development.
Modi highlighted the government’s focus on women’s welfare, including reforms in property ownership and banking. He mentioned that many houses built under government schemes are registered in women’s names and emphasized that this trend will continue. He also praised the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana and Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana for their role in increasing financial inclusion among women, with significant loan disbursements and increased limits reflecting trust in women’s financial reliability.
Need for stable governance
The Prime Minister discussed the success of schemes like Swanidhi, which provides loans to street vendors without guarantees, and reiterated his commitment to supporting women in all sectors, including new roles like drone pilots and agricultural leaders. Modi announced plans to expand programs like Krishi Sakhi, aimed at empowering women in agriculture.
Modi also addressed the issue of women’s safety, stressing that the government is working rigorously to prevent and address atrocities against women. He cited recent legal reforms, such as the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS), which include provisions for swift action and severe penalties for crimes against women. Modi reaffirmed the central government’s support for state governments in eradicating violence against women and stressed that societal attitudes must change.
In closing, Modi highlighted Maharashtra’s role in India’s development, emphasizing the need for stable governance to attract investments and create job opportunities. He expressed confidence in the collective strength of Maharashtra’s mothers and daughters to contribute to the state’s prosperity.
The event was attended by notable figures including Maharashtra Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Ministers Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar, and Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Shivraj Singh Chauhan.
Prime Minister Modi’s address underscored a significant commitment to women’s empowerment and economic development, reinforcing the government’s dedication to transforming the lives of women and their families across India.
