Odisha Sets Ambitious Goal: 60 Lakh Lakhpati Didis and 10 Lakh Millionaire Didis by 2047
In a significant announcement on International Women's Day, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi revealed the state's ambitious plan to empower women economically. Speaking at the women and child development department celebration in Puri, Majhi stated that Odisha has already created 17 lakh Lakhpati Didis and aims to escalate this number to 60 lakh by the year 2047. Additionally, the state targets creating 10 lakh 'Millionaire Didis' within the same timeframe, marking a bold step towards financial independence for women.
Subhadra Yojana: A Catalyst for Women's Empowerment
On this occasion, Chief Minister Majhi distributed the fourth instalment of the Subhadra Yojana assistance, providing Rs 5,000 each to 1,02,12,665 beneficiaries. This massive financial injection totaled Rs 5,106.33 crore, directly transferred to the bank accounts of women across the state. The Subhadra Yojana has been a cornerstone of Odisha's women empowerment initiatives, with over Rs 15,000 crore distributed in the previous three instalments.
Quoting a survey report by the Indian Institute of Management in Sambalpur, Majhi highlighted the transformative impact of this assistance. According to the report:
- 25.52% of beneficiaries used the funds to start their own businesses, fostering entrepreneurship.
- 35.7% spent it on household needs, improving daily living conditions.
- Many women also utilized the money to repay loans, grow savings, and enhance their skills, contributing to long-term financial stability.
Political and Social Dimensions
Beyond economic measures, Chief Minister Majhi addressed a recent political incident, condemning the alleged disrespect shown to President Droupadi Murmu during her visit to West Bengal for the 9th International Santali conference. Majhi emphasized that such actions are an insult not only to the President but also to the nation and womanhood as a whole.
During the event, Majhi also released key documents, including the Subhadra review report, a coffee table book from the WCD department, and a booklet focused on preventing child marriage. Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, who serves as the WCD minister, praised Odisha's progress, stating, "What the country aspires to achieve today for women has already been realised in Odisha. The Subhadra Yojana stands as proof of women empowerment in the state and positioned Odisha's women as an emerging force in India."
Looking Ahead: A Vision for Inclusive Growth
Odisha's initiatives reflect a comprehensive approach to women's development, blending financial support with social awareness. The state's focus on creating Lakhpati and Millionaire Didis aligns with broader goals of reducing poverty and promoting gender equality. As Odisha moves forward, these efforts are expected to inspire similar programs nationwide, setting a benchmark for women-centric policies in India.
