Bhubaneswar: The ‘Lakhpati Didi’ initiative, India’s flagship program aimed at economically empowering women, has emerged as a transformative force in Odisha, placing the state second nationally in creating financially independent women entrepreneurs. With over 9.36 lakh women now earning ₹1 lakh or more annually, Odisha stands as a shining example of grassroots economic empowerment under the leadership of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi.
One of the most inspiring success stories is that of Tilottama Mahanta, a resilient entrepreneur from Dhakotha village in Raghunathpur GP, Sadar Block, Keonjhar district. A member of the Maa Gayatri Self-Help Group (SHG), Tilottama has exemplified determination and perseverance in transforming economic hardship into financial stability.
Following the loss of her husband, Tilottama struggled to sustain her family due to limited financial resources and technical knowledge. However, her association with the Raghunathpur GPLF and Dhakotha CLF marked a turning point. With structured support, she secured a bank loan of ₹5 lakhs and a Community Investment Fund (CIF) of ₹50,000, enabling her to venture into vegetable cultivation, tailoring, and duck farming. Her diversified income streams now generate an annual income of ₹1.80 lakhs, securing her family’s financial future and inspiring fellow SHG members.
The impact of economic independence has been profound on her family. Her daughter is now pursuing graduation, while her son is enrolled in intermediate studies, highlighting the far-reaching benefits of women’s financial empowerment.
The Odisha Livelihoods Mission (OLM) has played a crucial role in implementing the Lakhpati Didi initiative through financial inclusion, capacity building, skill development, and market linkages. These strategic interventions have created an enabling ecosystem for rural women entrepreneurs, driving Odisha’s progress in women-led economic growth.
A significant boost to this movement came from the recently concluded Subhadra Shakti Mela, which provided thousands of SHGs and Producer Groups with a vital platform to showcase their products, connect with markets, and enhance their business acumen. This market exposure has directly contributed to increased financial stability and brand recognition for Odisha’s women entrepreneurs.
Tilottama Mahanta’s journey is not just one of financial success but a testament to social transformation. Stories like hers demonstrate the power of grassroots initiatives in redefining Odisha’s socio-economic landscape, inspiring generations of women to break barriers and achieve self-reliance.