TAG: GS 2: GOVERNANCE
THE CONTEXT: Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the Lakhpati Didi Sammelan held in Jalgaon, Maharashtra.
EXPLANATION:
- This significant event focused on recognizing and empowering women involved in Self-Help Groups (SHGs).
- The Prime Minister felicitated 11 lakh new Lakhpati Didis, women who have reached the milestone of earning a lakh rupees or more.
- These accomplishments took place during the current government’s third term.
- The event is part of the broader Lakhpati Didi Yojana, which aims to uplift women economically and socially.
Financial Support and Economic Impact
- Prime Minister Modi announced the release of a substantial revolving fund of Rs 2,500 crore, benefiting about 48 lakh members across 4.3 lakh SHGs.
- Additionally, bank loans amounting to Rs 5,000 crore were disbursed, aiming to benefit 25.8 lakh members of 2.35 lakh SHGs.
- Since the inception of the Lakhpati Didi Yojana, one crore women have already achieved the Lakhpati Didi status, with the government targeting a total of three crore such Didis.
- This financial support is a clear demonstration of the government’s commitment to transforming rural economies and elevating the status of women in society.
Maharashtra’s Cultural Heritage
- During his address, Prime Minister expressed his gratitude to the large gathering of women and acknowledged the cultural significance of Maharashtra.
- He paid tribute to the state’s deep-rooted traditions, which have made an impact not only in India but globally.
- The Prime Minister recounted his recent visit to Poland, where he witnessed the respect and admiration for Maharashtra’s cultural heritage.
- He highlighted the historical ties between Kolhapur and Poland during World War II, emphasizing the role of Maharashtra’s traditions of hospitality and service.
Acknowledging Matrushakti: The Power of Women
- PM emphasized the concept of ‘Matrushakti’—the power of motherhood and womanhood in Maharashtra.
- He paid homage to iconic figures such as Mata Jijabai, the guiding force behind Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, and Savitribai Phule, a pioneer in women’s education.
- The Prime Minister underscored that women in Maharashtra have always been at the forefront of societal change, and their influence continues to shape the future of the state and the nation.
- He noted that the legacy of Maharashtra’s women serves as a source of inspiration for the entire country.
Transforming Families and Societies
- The Prime Minister highlighted the transformative impact of the Lakhpati Didi initiative, pointing out that when a woman becomes financially independent, it not only elevates her social status but also enhances the economic well-being of her entire family.
- PM expressed his vision of empowering every woman in rural India, stating that the prosperity of a family is often anchored by the financial independence of its women members.
- PM praised the women of Maharashtra for embodying the values of courage, resilience, and leadership.
Government Initiatives for Women Empowerment
- PM highlighted several initiatives undertaken by his government to empower women, comparing these achievements to those of previous administrations.
- He mentioned the registration of houses in the name of women under various housing schemes and the opening of bank accounts for women under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana.
- The Prime Minister also noted that the majority of beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana, which provides collateral-free loans, are women, reflecting the government’s trust in women’s ability to drive economic growth.
Expanding Opportunities for Women
- The Prime Minister discussed the government’s efforts to open up traditionally male-dominated sectors to women, mentioning the inclusion of women in all branches of the armed forces, as well as in fields such as drone piloting and modern agriculture.
- He introduced the concept of ‘Bank Sakhis’—women providing banking services in rural areas—and ‘Pashu Sakhis’, who support livestock farmers.
- These roles are designed to integrate women into the economic mainstream and provide them with opportunities for leadership and employment.
Ensuring Women’s Safety and Dignity
- Emphasizing the importance of women’s safety, PM condemned any form of violence against women, declaring it an unpardonable sin.
- He called for stringent actions against perpetrators of such crimes and assured that both central and state governments are committed to protecting women’s rights and dignity.
- The Prime Minister stressed that the government has been working to strengthen laws and institutions to ensure the safety and well-being of women, making it clear that protecting women’s rights is a top priority.
Lakhpati Didi Scheme
- It was announced by the Prime Minister in his Independence Day speech on August 15, 2023.
- It aims to encourage women to start micro-enterprises within their villages.
- Under the Lakhpati Didi Initiative, the government aims to train two crore women.
- The programme is aimed at training women in self-help groups (SHGs) so that they can earn a sustainable income of at least Rs 1 lakh per annum per household.
- The initiative has been initiated by DAY-NRLM, wherein each SHG household is encouraged to take up multiple livelihood activities coupled with value chain interventions, resulting in a sustainable income of Rs 1 lakh or more per year.
- Under this scheme, women will be trained in various skills, such as plumbing, LED bulb making, drone operation and repair, and tailoring and weaving.
- After completing the training, women will be provided with opportunities to earn income using their skills.