Investing in economic empowerment for women directly contributes to gender equality, poverty eradication, and inclusive economic growth. Recognizing this, the Uttrakhand government's Rural Development department plans to make 1.25 lakh women from self-help group 'Lakhpati' by 2025.
Uttrakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurated the ‘Lakhpati Didi’ fair at the survey of India Maidan, Hathbarkala in Dehradun. The fair is part of the BJP government's initiative to empower women in the state.
Speaking as the chief guest at the 'Lakhpati Didi Fair' organised by the rural development department at the Survey of India ground here on Friday, the CM said that creating an ideal society is impossible in the absence of women empowerment.
The state government has taken numerous steps to empower women economically. He stated that the women's self-help group (SHG) has received a loan of Rs 5 lakh with no interest. Dhami stated that efforts are being made to link SHGs in order to promote local products.
He stated that during his recent visit to the border village of Mana, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made an appeal to pilgrims coming to Uttarakhand for the Char Dham Yatra to spend 5% of their travel expenses on local goods. This would boost our local products and assist in increasing women's income. The CM stated that PM Modi has always been committed to empowering women economically.
Speaking on the occasion, rural development minister Ganesh Joshi stated that the State government, led by Chief Minister Dhami, is working quickly to empower women. He stated that under the "Lakhpati Didi" scheme, every effort would be made to economically strengthen the women of the state.
The minister stated that every effort is being made to ensure that the general public benefits from the schemes of the Union and State governments. On the occasion, the CM and other guests assisted women earning more than one lakh rupees per year through SHGs as 'Lakhpati Didis.' Dhami also presented cheques to Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana beneficiaries.
Prem Chand Agarwal, chairman of the Uttarakhand Silk Federation Ajeet Chaudhary, additional chief secretary Anand Vardhan, secretary BVRC Purushottam, chief development officer (CDO) of Dehradun Jharna Kamthan, and others were present.
