New Delhi: Union Minister for Finance & Corporate Affairs, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, while presenting the Interim Budget 2024-25 in Parliament, announced a significant enhancement in the target for Lakhpati Didi, raising it from 2 crore to 3 crore.
Minister Sitharaman highlighted the transformative impact of Self-Help Groups (SHGs), with 83 lakh SHGs and nine crore women playing a crucial role in reshaping the rural socio-economic landscape. These empowered women have already helped nearly one crore individuals achieve the status of Lakhpati Didi, setting an inspiring example for others. The Finance Minister expressed admiration for their achievements, emphasizing that their success will be acknowledged through honors.
Buoyed by the success of the Lakhpati Didi initiative, the Finance Minister announced the decision to raise the target to 3 crore. She emphasized the government’s commitment to prioritizing the welfare of four major sections of society – the ‘Garib’ (Poor), ‘Mahilayen’ (Women), ‘Yuva’ (Youth), and ‘Annadata’ (Farmer). Minister Sitharaman asserted that the progress of the country is intricately linked to the advancement of these four segments, and their needs, aspirations, and welfare are the highest priority.
Reiterating the government’s holistic approach to development, Minister Sitharaman stated, “The Government is working with an approach to development that is all-round, all-pervasive and all-inclusive (सर्वांगीण, सर्वस्पर्शी और सर्वसमावेशी).” This approach encompasses all castes and people at all levels, aiming to make India a ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India) by 2047. The Finance Minister emphasized the need to improve people’s capabilities and empower them to achieve this ambitious goal.
The announcement reflects the government’s commitment to inclusive development, recognizing the pivotal role of women in fostering socio-economic transformation and empowering individuals across the country. The Lakhpati Didi initiative is poised to play a crucial role in advancing the well-being of women and contributing to the overall development of the nation.