Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma initiated the distribution of entrepreneurship fund cheques for women beneficiaries in the Manas and Bhabanipur-Sarbhog Assembly constituencies. In Manas, 30,737 women received Rs 10,000 each, while 25,157 women in Bhabanipur-Sarbhog were assisted later in the day. The fund aims to empower women associated with self-help groups to achieve financial independence.
Sarma stated that Assam has around 40 lakh women linked to SHGs, with over 8 lakh already attaining financial independence. The goal is to make every SHG member a financially independent “Lakhpati Baideu” within three years. The government plans to provide training, credit linkage, and phased financial aid to support the beneficiaries.
The proper utilization of the initial Rs 10,000 will qualify the beneficiaries for additional assistance of Rs 25,000 and Rs 50,000 in subsequent phases. Sarma shared success stories from the constituencies, emphasizing women who have enhanced their livelihoods and household incomes. He also mentioned other welfare measures, including subsidies on essential items for ration card holders.
