Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged with ‘Lakhpati Didis’ in Gujarat’s Navsari district on Saturday, commemorating International Women’s Day with a focus on women’s empowerment and economic self-sufficiency. Accompanied by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Patil, the Prime Minister highlighted the government’s commitment to fostering financial independence among rural women through self-help groups (SHGs).
Who is a Lakhpati Didi?
A ‘Lakhpati Didi’ is a member of an SHG (Self-Help Group) who achieves an annual household income of at least ₹1 lakh, calculated over four agricultural seasons or business cycles. To qualify, the member must sustain an average monthly income exceeding ₹10,000. The initiative aims to uplift rural women by promoting diversified livelihood activities and ensuring financial stability through government-backed schemes.
The Lakhpati Didi programme operates through the convergence of multiple government departments, ministries, private sector organizations, and market players. It focuses on planning, implementation, and monitoring to maximize economic opportunities for SHG members and empower women at the grassroots level.
Launch of New Schemes: G-SAFAL & G-MAITRI
During the event, PM Modi felicitated five Lakhpati Didis with Lakhpati Didi Certificates and addressed a large gathering of women. He also launched two key Gujarat government initiatives:
- G-SAFAL (Gujarat Scheme for Antyodaya Families for Augmenting Livelihoods): This scheme aims to provide financial aid and entrepreneurial training to SHG women from Antyodaya families. It will be implemented in two aspirational districts and thirteen aspirational blocks across Gujarat, helping marginalized women enhance their income and financial independence.
- G-MAITRI (Gujarat Mentorship and Acceleration of Individuals for Transforming Rural Income): Focused on startups and mentorship, G-MAITRI aims to create a conducive environment for rural businesses by offering financial assistance, training, and market access to women-led enterprises.
Tribute to Nari Shakti & Women’s Day Social Media Takeover
On the occasion, PM Modi paid tribute to Nari Shakti, recognizing the strength, resilience, and contributions of women in various fields. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the Prime Minister announced that his social media accounts would be taken over by women achievers from diverse sectors, showcasing their success stories and impact on society.
“We bow to our Nari Shakti on #WomensDay! Our government has always worked towards empowering women, as reflected in our schemes and programmes. Today, as promised, my social media platforms will be taken over by women making a mark in various fields,” PM Modi stated.
Strengthening Rural Women’s Financial Independence
The Lakhpati Didi initiative is a flagship effort under the government’s broader mission to elevate rural women’s economic status. By enabling women to achieve self-sufficiency and entrepreneurship, the initiative not only enhances household incomes but also strengthens local economies. The interaction in Navsari served as a platform to inspire more women to become financially independent and actively contribute to their families and communities.
With schemes like G-SAFAL, G-MAITRI, and the Lakhpati Didi programme, the Indian government continues to drive women’s empowerment, rural development, and financial inclusion, ensuring that Nari Shakti remains a key pillar of the nation’s progress.
