India’s rural empowerment drive gained fresh momentum on Sunday as Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan declared the country nearing 3 crore Lakhpati Didis, building on the success of over 2 crore already. During a special Republic Day-linked ceremony in New Delhi, he recognized more than 400 trailblazing women from SHGs, PMAY-G schemes, and livelihood missions for strengthening grassroots institutions.
Describing Republic Day as the festival of these Didis’ motivational odysseys, Chouhan honored SHG women from every corner of India for instilling confidence and leadership in their communities.
He asserted that a wealthy India rests on the shoulders of thriving women, with DAY-NRLM playing a game-changing role in credit facilitation, enterprise promotion, and collective action against inequalities.
Chouhan invoked popular programs like Ladli Laxmi Yojana and Beti Bachao Beti Padhao to illustrate the push for equitable societies. Notably, women direct one-fourth of all SMEs, marking their shift from participants to powerhouse drivers of growth.
The minister elaborated on DAY-NRLM’s innovations in market connectivity, including tie-ups with e-commerce portals and digital empowerment tools. These efforts enable rural Didis to embed in value chains, boost incomes, and propel the nation towards its 2047 developed status.