Modi Targets 6 Crore Lakhpati Didis for Women’s Empowerment

On India’s 80th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared a new national objective to create six crore ‘Lakhpati Didis’. This initiative significantly expands the government’s commitment to the economic empowerment of rural women.

The ‘Lakhpati Didi’ initiative operates under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM). It aims to support women in Self-Help Groups (SHGs) by providing access to credit, skill development, and market connections.

Key Details of the Lakhpati Didi Program

• A ‘Lakhpati Didi’ is defined as a woman whose household achieves an annual income of one lakh rupees.
• The initial national goal of three crore Lakhpati Didis was met ahead of its projected 2027 completion.
• Currently, over 10 crore women participate in Self-Help Groups nationwide.

The previous target of three crore Lakhpati Didis was achieved earlier than anticipated, building momentum for this escalated ambition. Union Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan also reiterated this revised target.

Expanding the Reach

Achieving the initial three crore target was relatively easier, as it involved women already earning between Rs 50,000 and Rs 60,000 annually. The expanded goal of six crore will require more intensive efforts to uplift women with lower current incomes.

• The strategy for reaching six crore Lakhpati Didis involves:
• Enhancing bank linkages for better financial access.
• Fostering enterprise development within SHGs.
• Integrating value chains in both agricultural and non-farm sectors.
• Utilizing digital tools like the Digital Aajeevika Register.

Roadmaps and strategies for this ambitious goal are being developed through collaboration. This includes state governments, bankers, and field teams working together to ensure comprehensive implementation.

Broader Vision for Women-Led Development

The Lakhpati Didi program forms a crucial part of India’s broader strategy for women-led development. It complements other initiatives focused on financial inclusion and entrepreneurial support.

• Other schemes supporting women’s empowerment include:
• Entrepreneurial support through schemes like Mudra.
• Capacity-building via community resource persons and master trainers.

Increased allocations to DAY-NRLM are intended to sustain this momentum, with special campaigns planned to encourage more women to join SHGs. President Droupadi Murmu acknowledged the achievement and the push for an additional three crore Lakhpati Didis.

Prime Minister Modi positioned this livelihood goal within the national vision of a developed India by 2047, emphasizing collective citizen effort. Sustained progress in this area is expected to boost rural household incomes, strengthen women’s agency, and contribute to inclusive growth.