Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan stated that connecting 10 crore women to financial inclusion initiatives is crucial to achieve the goal of creating 6 crore ‘Lakhpati Didis’. He urged officials to collaborate closely with state governments to develop a time-bound plan for this objective. Chouhan emphasized the significance of financial inclusion for empowering women and ensuring sustainable livelihoods in rural areas.
In a meeting, the minister requested a comprehensive update from Ministry officials on the scheme’s progress. He instructed officials to devise a focused strategy and work diligently to meet the revised target of establishing 6 crore ‘Lakhpati Didis’. Chouhan highlighted the importance of integrating more women into the formal financial system through bank linkages, credit access, insurance, and financial literacy to enhance their economic independence.
Chouhan stressed the need for continuous engagement with states to strengthen the implementation of DAY–NRLM. He mentioned that sustained coordination with state governments would expand the scheme’s benefits to more Self-Help Groups and ‘Lakhpati Didis’, enabling them to leverage various empowerment initiatives effectively. The Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana–National Rural Livelihoods Mission focuses on institutional building, social inclusion, financial literacy, and livelihood promotion to enhance rural households’ income opportunities.
Around 5 crore individuals have received financial literacy training, enhancing their financial management skills. Additionally, nearly 7 crore people have benefited from expanded social security coverage through various schemes. The mission aims to create strong community institutions, develop skills, foster inclusive growth, and provide income-generating opportunities for rural households.
