Table of Contents
Context: Recently, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced expansion of the Lakhpati Didi Scheme training target from 2 crores to 3 crores.
About Lakhpati Didi Scheme
- Launched: August 15, 2023
- Goal: Train 3 crore women in self-help groups (SHGs) (extended in recent interim budget)
- Target: Sustainable income of Rs 1 lakh+ per household per year
- Method: Multiple livelihood activities + value chain interventions
- Training: Skills like plumbing, LED bulb making, drone operation, tailoring, weaving.
- Support: Opportunities to earn income using acquired skills.
- Implementation: DAY-NRLM (Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission) with a “whole-of-government” approach for rural economic transformation.
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Lakhpati Didi Scheme Overview
Aspect | Details |
---|---|
Objective | Empower women in rural areas through entrepreneurship and skill development. |
Target | Increase beneficiaries from 2 crore to 3 crore women. |
Skill Development | Training provided in plumbing, tailoring, weaving, LED bulb making, drone operation, and repair. |
Income Goal | Sustainable income of at least ₹1 lakh per annum. |
Eligibility | Active members of self-help groups. |
Required Documents | Domicile certificate, Aadhar card, ration card, proof of income, bank details. |
Application Process | Obtain information and forms from local Anganwadi centres. |
Impact | Nearly 1 crore women empowered, with achievements recognized and honored. |
Strategic Focus | Interim Budget emphasizes empowering marginalized sectors, including women, youth, farmers, and poor. |
Objectives of Lakhpati Didi Scheme
- Empowerment: The primary goal is to empower women by providing them with opportunities to become financially self-sufficient.
- Skill Development: The scheme offers training in various skills such as plumbing, tailoring, weaving, LED bulb making, drone operation, and repair to equip women with the necessary skills for entrepreneurship.
- Income Generation: Women are encouraged to start micro-enterprises that enable them to earn a sustainable income of at least ₹1 lakh per annum, thereby improving their economic status.
- Expansion: The budget proposes to increase the number of beneficiaries under the scheme from 2 crore to 3 crore, reflecting the government’s commitment to broader inclusion and empowerment.
Eligibility Criteria
- Participants must be active members of self-help groups.
- Required documents include a domicile certificate, Aadhar card, ration card, proof of income, and bank details.
Application Process
- Women interested in participating in the Lakhpati Didi Scheme should be part of self-help groups.
- Additional information and application forms can be obtained from local Anganwadi centres.
Impact and Recognition
- Nearly 1 crore women in rural areas have already benefited from the scheme, demonstrating its effectiveness in empowering women and fostering self-reliance.
- The achievements of women participants are recognized and honored, serving as inspiration for others and fostering a culture of entrepreneurship and empowerment in rural communities.
Strategic Focus of the Interim Budget
- The Interim Budget of FY 2024-25 demonstrates a strategic focus on empowering marginalized sections of society, including women, youth, farmers, and the poor.
- By targeting these core sectors, the government aims to promote inclusive growth and development, laying the foundation for a more prosperous and equitable society.
Conclusion
- The Lakhpati Didi Scheme represents a significant step towards empowering women in rural India and fostering economic independence.
- Through skill development, income generation, and broader inclusion, the scheme contributes to the government’s vision of creating a more self-reliant and prosperous nation.
- The expansion of the scheme in the Interim Budget underscores the government’s commitment to women’s empowerment and inclusive development.