More than 16 lakh women in Rajasthan have achieved the status of ‘Lakhpati Didis’ thanks to the state government’s efforts in empowering women and promoting financial inclusion. The government is establishing Rural Women’s BPOs at the district level with an expenditure of Rs 100 crore to provide economic support and employment opportunities for rural women. Additionally, the loan limit under the Chief Minister Lakhpati Didi Loan Scheme has been raised from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 1.5 lakh to further encourage women entrepreneurship.
Several innovative initiatives are being rolled out through Grameen Aajeevika Vikas Parishad (Rajivika) to empower women in Rajasthan. The state government, in its budget announcement for this year, plans to provide buildings for offices and other purposes to 100 cluster-level federations formed under Rajivika. Moreover, “Saksham Centres” for digital and financial literacy will be established in these offices.
To enhance the branding, design, and packaging of products by self-help groups, the state government will develop 50 new enterprises in sectors like dairy, textiles, footwear, millets, and spices. Collaboration with national and international institutions will be sought to expand the marketing of these products. The government is also focusing on promoting women entrepreneurship by establishing Raj Sakhi Stores at all divisional headquarters to provide capacity-building support to Rajivika-affiliated women.
Under the Chief Minister Nari Shakti Udyam Protsahan Yojana, the loan limit has been increased from Rs 50 lakh to Rs 1 crore. Additionally, about 5,000 women from self-help groups will be trained as “Banking Correspondent Sakhis” to further financial inclusion efforts. The state government’s plan includes developing 11,000 Amrit Poshan Vatikas to support women’s self-help groups’ livelihoods and ensure local availability of fruits and vegetables for mid-day meals in Anganwadi centers and schools.
