Gujarat Leads Women-Led Development: PM Modi Honors ‘Lakhpati Didis’

Navsari : Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the pivotal role of women in shaping rural India’s future during his address at Vasi Borsi in Navsari, Gujarat, where he honored thousands of women achievers on International Women’s Day. Celebrating the success of Gujarat’s women-led initiatives, PM Modi highlighted the transformative impact of programs like ‘Lakhpati Didi’ that recognize women earning over one lakh rupees annually.

“Gandhiji used to say that the soul of the country lies in the villages. I would add a line to that: the soul of rural India lies in the empowerment of women,” remarked PM Modi, underscoring Gujarat’s exemplary model of cooperative-driven development, notably through brands like Amul and Lijjat Papad, which have gained global recognition due to the dedication and hard work of women.

Gujarat has become synonymous with women-led progress, particularly in sectors like dairy farming, where lakhs of women have revolutionized milk production. The state’s initiatives have provided robust support to the village economy, empowering countless women to achieve financial independence and contribute significantly to their communities.

PM Narendra Modi said, “Here in this event in Navsari, we can see the power of women. Women have taken the entire responsibility of this event. The policemen and officers deployed for the security of such a big event are all women. From constable, SP, DSP to senior officers, the security here is being handled by women. This is an example of women power… When I meet all of you, my belief gets stronger that the resolve of a developed India will be fulfilled and women power will play a big role in it.”

The ‘Lakhpati Didi’ program, a cornerstone of Gujarat’s empowerment efforts, honored 1.5 lakh women, including 41,000 who have attained financial milestones. PM Modi highlighted the program’s success in inspiring economic self-sufficiency among rural women, paving the way for broader participation in developmental activities across the state.

Underlining his government’s commitment to women’s empowerment, PM Modi cited landmark policies such as the removal of Article 370, which granted Jammu and Kashmir women equal rights previously denied to them. He also highlighted legislative efforts to ban triple talaq, ensuring the protection and dignity of Muslim women nationwide.

“In every sector of the country, women’s participation is commendable,” PM Modi affirmed, noting significant strides in female representation in Parliament and key governmental positions since 2014. He credited Gujarat’s pioneering schemes like Chiranjeevi Yojana and Beti Bachao Abhiyan for instilling confidence among women and fostering a supportive environment for their growth.

The Prime Minister also lauded Gujarat’s initiatives in water conservation, led by women through initiatives like the Jal Jivan Mission and Pani Samitis. These efforts have not only addressed critical water scarcity issues but also provided a model for other states to emulate, with Navsari district emerging as a leader in water conservation practices.

Looking ahead, PM Modi outlined ambitious plans to expand the reach of self-help groups (SHGs) across the country, aiming to make five crore women ‘Lakhpati Didis’ in the next five years. He announced a five-fold increase in the budget for SHGs, coupled with enhanced support for modern production techniques, including the pioneering ‘Drone Didi’ scheme that has empowered women farmers to embrace innovative agricultural practices and significantly increase their incomes.

As Gujarat continues to set benchmarks in women-led development, PM Modi reaffirmed his commitment to fostering an environment where every woman has the opportunity to thrive and contribute meaningfully to India’s progress.