Over 3.24 lakh ‘Lakhpati Didis’ are playing a vital role in enhancing Punjab’s rural economy, as stated by BJP’s Rajya Sabha member Satnam Singh Sandhu. Sandhu announced the establishment of a skill training center near Chandigarh using his MPLAD fund during a gathering with 1,200 women from villages in Dera Bassi town. The focus was on the necessity of such a center for women from the surrounding areas.
BJP’s district in-charge Jagdeep Singh Aujala was also in attendance at the event. Sandhu commended the Union government’s efforts, including initiatives like ‘Lakhpati Didis’ and ‘Drone Didis,’ aimed at empowering women. He highlighted the historical and contemporary contributions of women to India’s economy and emphasized Punjab’s significant participation in these initiatives.
Sandhu revealed that out of 2.9 crore ‘Lakhpati Didis’ nationwide, Punjab accounts for 324,811 participants. Additionally, the state has 57 self-help groups with an equal number of women trained as drone pilots, showcasing Punjab’s role in technology-driven livelihood programs. The ‘Lakhpati Didi’ scheme by the Union Rural Development Ministry aims to empower women in SHGs to achieve an annual household income of Rs 1 lakh or more, with a target of creating six crore ‘Lakhpati Didis.’
The ‘Namo Drone Didi’ scheme, another government initiative, allocates drones to 15,000 women SHGs with a budget of Rs 1,261 crore. This program focuses on training rural women as drone pilots to offer agricultural services like spraying fertilizers and pesticides to local farmers. Sandhu highlighted the positive impact of these schemes in Punjab, emphasizing the financial independence and improved social status of women in the state.
Various stalls were set up by SHG women in Dera Bassi and Lalru, showcasing Punjab-specific products deeply rooted in local traditions and artisanal skills. These products included phulkari, suits, juttis, honey, pickles, squash, vinegar, oils, masalas, papad, soaps, and candles.
