In a significant move towards women’s empowerment, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman introduced the ‘Lakhpati Didi’ scheme during the Budget 2024 announcement.
While major fiscal changes were not the focus, the Finance Minister outlined plans to create three crore ‘Lakhpati Didis’ from the existing 30 crore Mudra loans.
Highlights of the ‘Lakhpati Didi’ Scheme:
1. Targeted Empowerment:
The Finance Minister emphasized a goal of creating three crore ‘Lakhpati Didis,’ building on the success of the existing one crore women who have already benefited from the scheme.
2. Inspiration Through Success:
Recognizing the hard work and success of the current ‘Lakhpati Didis,’ Sitharaman expressed confidence that their achievements would inspire others to join the financial empowerment movement.
3. Overview of the Scheme:
The ‘Lakhpati Didi’ scheme, initiated by the Central Government, focuses on financial empowerment through skill development training for women. PM Modi introduced the scheme on August 15, 2023.
4. Skill Development Training:
The program includes skill development training, particularly in technical areas such as LED bulb manufacturing, plumbing, and drone repairing, aimed at improving the economic conditions of rural women.
5. Financial Literacy Workshops:
Workshops are conducted for women with an annual income of Rs 1 lakh and above, covering topics such as budgeting, saving, investment, and financial instruments.
The scheme encourages regular savings and provides small loans for entrepreneurial ventures, education, and other needs.
6. Digital Literacy:
The scheme focuses on digital literacy, training women to use digital banking services, mobile wallets, and other digital platforms, enhancing their financial accessibility.
7. Empowering Through Entrepreneurship:
Women are encouraged to venture into entrepreneurship, industry, and education, further contributing to their personal and professional development.
Success Stories Across States:
The scheme has witnessed success in various states, where women have utilized the program to increase their annual income to Rs 1 lakh or more.
The ‘Lakhpati Didi’ scheme stands as a testament to the government’s commitment to women’s economic empowerment, providing them with the tools and opportunities to achieve financial independence.
