Empowering Women: From Lakhpati Didis to Cultural Unifiers at Saras Aajeevika

Union Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced that over two crore women self-help group workers, known as 'Lakhpati Didis,' have achieved financial success. The government aims to increase this number to three crore. Chouhan highlighted the importance of women's empowerment at the Saras Aajeevika Food Festival, showcasing India's cultural diversity.

Union Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan declared that over two crore women self-help group (SHG) workers, known colloquially as 'Lakhpati Didis,' have reached significant financial milestones. The government is setting its sights on expanding this figure to three crore.

Chouhan made these remarks during the Saras Aajeevika Food Festival, which concluded recently, describing it as a beacon of women's empowerment, cultural diversity, and national cohesion. The festival displayed India's rich cultural mosaic and emphasized unity despite the nation's diverse languages, costumes, and cuisines. He also sampled various dishes, underscoring the event's significance.

The 11-day event, organized in conjunction with the National Institute of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, along with Kutumb Shree, featured 62 stalls run by SHGs from across the country, serving regional cuisines. The 'Lakhpati Didis' initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Rural Development, helps women achieve financial independence through training, financial aid, and convergence with complementary schemes.

(With inputs from agencies.)