PM Modi Disburses ₹6,000 Crore to Empower Over 11 Lakh Women at Lakhpati Didi Sammelan

Jalgaon, Maharashtra: Prime Minister Narendra Modi today participated in the Lakhpati Didi Sammelan, where he awarded certificates and felicitated 11 lakh women who have recently achieved the status of ‘Lakhpati Didis’. The event, held in Jalgaon, celebrated the success of the initiative that has helped over one crore women become financially independent since its inception. During his visit, the Prime Minister also released a revolving fund of ₹2,500 crore, benefiting approximately 48 lakh members of 4.3 lakh Self-Help Groups (SHGs), and disbursed ₹5,000 crore in bank loans to support 25.8 lakh SHG members.

In his address, PM Modi emphasized the transformative impact of the Lakhpati Didi campaign, highlighting its role in uplifting the rural economy by increasing household incomes and boosting women’s social standing. “The fortunes of an entire family are transformed when one sister becomes Lakhpati Didi,” he remarked, noting the increase in purchasing power and the empowerment of women across the country. The Prime Minister added, “Today, more than ₹6,000 crore has been disbursed to Women SHGs across India, and this will enable many more women to become Lakhpati Didis.”

Modi underscored that the initiative is not just about improving incomes but also about strengthening families and future generations. Reflecting on past neglect towards women’s development, the Prime Minister stated, “Many women in India didn’t own property, making it difficult for them to access bank loans. This government has taken steps to reduce their burden and empower them economically.”

Shri Modi also expressed his admiration for the women of Maharashtra, praising their contribution to the country’s cultural heritage and their active participation in strengthening the local economy. He said the campaign is a significant stride towards ensuring that no sister is left behind and that every woman can contribute to a more prosperous future for India.

Union Minister for Rural Development, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, who also attended the event, lauded the large turnout of women despite the heavy rain. He praised the success of the campaign, highlighting that over 11 lakh women have already become Lakhpati Didis ahead of schedule. “With the Prime Minister’s vision and the resolve of our sisters, we are confident of creating 3 crore Lakhpati Didis,” he stated.