'LAKHPATI DIDI' INITIATIVE

Copyright infringement not intended

Picture Courtesy: www.hindustantimes.com

Context: The Lakhpati Didi Initiative is a significant effort launched by the Indian government under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM). This initiative, announced by the Prime Minister on Independence Day in 2023, aims to empower women in rural areas by encouraging them to start micro-enterprises within their villages.

Key objectives and features of the Lakhpati Didi Initiative

• The primary goal of the initiative is to encourage women to establish micro-enterprises and become economically self-sufficient. The focus is on training women in various skills, enabling them to earn a sustainable income of at least Rs 1 lakh per annum per household.
• Women in self-help groups (SHGs) are provided training in diverse skills such as plumbing, LED bulb making, drone operation and repair, tailoring, and weaving. This training equips them with the necessary skills to generate income.
• The government plans to train two crore (20 million) women under this initiative. These women will be members of self-help groups (SHGs) in their respective communities.
  • Upon completion of the training, women are given opportunities to use their acquired skills for income generation. This aspect ensures that the training translates into tangible economic benefits for the participants.
• The initiative is implemented by the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM), which is a flagship poverty alleviation program led by the Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India.
• The Ministry of Rural Development is adopting a comprehensive approach, involving various government departments and agencies, to maximize the impact of the Lakhpati Didi Initiative. This approach includes convergence efforts to transform the rural economy and enable the success of the initiative.

Conclusion

• Lakhpati Didi Initiative is a demand-driven program that aims to reduce poverty by providing self-employment and skilled-wage employment opportunities to poor households. The mission focuses on social mobilization, financial inclusion, sustainable livelihoods, and social development to empower rural communities and enhance their access to entitlements. Through these efforts, the government aims to create sustainable and diversified livelihood options for the rural poor, thereby contributing to poverty reduction and economic empowerment at the grassroots level.

Must Read Articles:

Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRL): https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/deendayal-antyodaya-yojana-national-rural-livelihood-mission

SELF HELP GROUPS (SHGs): https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/self-help-groups-shgs#:~:text=SHGs%20play%20a%20crucial%20role,participate%20in%20the%20Gram%20Sabha.