Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, in her presentation of the Interim Budget 2024, highlighted several women-centric schemes aimed at empowering women economically. A notable announcement was made regarding the expansion of the Lakhpati Didi Scheme, which previously benefited 2 crore women and will now cover 3 crore women. The decision to enhance the initiative stemmed from the positive impact observed in the lives of 1 crore women who have already availed its benefits.
During her Budget speech, FM Sitharaman emphasized, “The Lakhpati Didi initiative will be enhanced from 2 to 3 crore beneficiaries. Nine crore women have experienced transformation in their lives, achieving self-reliance through this program.” Prime Minister Narendra Modi initiated this scheme, mentioning it during his speech at the Red Fort on August 15, 2023. The program focuses on providing technical training to women to enable them to earn an annual income of over one lakh rupees.
PM Modi also highlighted efforts to integrate women into self-help groups, with 10 crore women currently associated with them. Under this initiative, women’s self-help groups receive drone facilities along with training for operation and maintenance, further empowering them economically.
The success of self-help groups has empowered 1 crore women to become “Lakhpati Didis,” contributing significantly to rural development. Additionally, FM Nirmala Sitharaman announced the government’s plans to prioritize vaccination against cervical cancer for girls aged 9 to 14 as part of the Interim Budget 2024. Other health-related schemes include extending Ayushman Bharat cover to all Asha workers and Anganwadi workers and helpers.
