Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that 8 lakh women in the state, affiliated with Self-Help Groups (SHGs), have achieved financial independence under the Lakhpati Baideo Scheme. This initiative focuses on enhancing the economic status of women, especially those involved in SHGs, by helping them earn a minimum annual income of Rs 1 lakh through various sustainable livelihood activities. The scheme provides financial aid, skill development, market connections, and guidance to promote rural entrepreneurship in sectors like agriculture, livestock, weaving, and small-scale enterprises.
During an event in Cachar district, Sarma revealed that out of the 40 lakh women linked with SHGs in Assam, 8 lakh have already become Lakhpati Baideus, with the goal of transforming the remaining 32 lakh women into self-reliant entrepreneurs. As part of the Chief Minister’s Women Entrepreneurship Mission, Sarma distributed cheques to beneficiaries in different legislative assembly constituencies, offering seed capital of Rs. 10,000 each to over 52,000 women, totaling nearly 20 lakh beneficiaries across the state.
Addressing a public gathering in Sribhumi district, Sarma emphasized the government’s commitment to providing seed capital to 32 lakh women under the mission, amounting to a total expenditure of Rs 3,200 crore. He highlighted success stories of women entrepreneurs, encouraging the utilization of the seed capital to create collective funds within SHGs, enabling investments in businesses and expansion of existing ventures. Sarma also outlined a monitoring mechanism to assess fund utilization and announced additional support for effective beneficiaries in subsequent phases.
The Chief Minister further disclosed plans to extend benefits to more women through the Orunodoi scheme, with 2,000 additional beneficiaries set to receive financial aid. He assured the improvement of infrastructure, allocating funds for the enhancement of the DSA Playground. Sarma commended the state’s progress in ensuring the availability of essential goods and services, underscoring Assam’s advancement towards development.
