The Lakhpati Didi Scheme, initiated by the Central Government, is proving to be a significant empowerment program for rural women. Through this scheme, women in Self-Help Groups receive training, guidance, and financial assistance, enabling them to earn over Rs 1 lakh annually. In Sarkada village, Chhattisgarh, women from these groups have seen transformation through small businesses and agriculture, becoming financially independent as Lakhpati Didis.
Narmada Nishad, a member of the Jai Maa Bhavani Self-Help Group, shared her journey to financial independence. Starting with a sewing machine for income, she progressed to a grocery shop and later invested in brick-making, significantly increasing her earnings. With loans from the group, Narmada expanded her business, now earning up to Rs 1.5 lakh yearly, supporting her family independently.
Leena Sahu from the Jai Maa Lakshmi Self-Help Group established a fancy and grocery store with a group loan, engaging in agriculture and benefiting from government schemes. By combining various income sources, including selling vegetables, Leena now earns close to Rs 1.5 lakh annually, leading a content life as a Lakhpati Didi.
Phuleshwari Nishad of the Radha Rani Self-Help Group found success in farming after taking a group loan, cultivating vegetables and paddy. By selling vegetables year-round, she earns around Rs 1 lakh annually, making farming her primary livelihood and achieving self-sufficiency.
Jharna Sahu, the Cluster Coordinator, highlighted the increasing self-reliance of women in Self-Help Groups. Engaging in diverse activities like agriculture and small businesses with loans, combined with government support schemes, women are surpassing the Rs 1 lakh annual income threshold, becoming Lakhpati Didis.
