New Delhi, March 11, 2025 – The Indian government has announced an ambitious plan to bring 2.33 lakh potential Lakhpati Didi households into the “lakhpati fold” over the next two years, building on the success of a program aimed at empowering rural women. As of now, 29,000 households have already achieved this milestone, earning an annual income of at least Rs. 1 lakh, according to officials from the Ministry of Rural Development.
The Lakhpati Didi initiative, an outcome of the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM), focuses on enabling women in Self-Help Groups (SHGs) to achieve financial independence through sustainable livelihoods. The program provides skill training, access to credit, and market linkages to help SHG members establish micro-enterprises and diversify their income sources.
A senior official stated, “With 29,000 households already transformed, we are on track to meet our target of empowering 2.33 lakh more by 2027. This is a testament to the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of rural women.” The initiative has been bolstered by an increased budgetary allocation of Rs. 15,047 crore for DAY-NRLM in FY 2024-25, aimed at deepening livelihood interventions.
Community Resource Persons are playing a key role by guiding potential Lakhpati Didis in crafting business plans and connecting them with resources such as the Women Enterprise Acceleration Fund. The program also emphasizes collaboration with other ministries to ensure SHG members benefit from a wide range of government schemes.
As the initiative progresses, it continues to inspire rural communities, with success stories of women turning small ventures into thriving businesses. The government aims to scale this effort to reach 3 crore Lakhpati Didis nationwide, a goal highlighted in the 2024 Interim Budget.