JHANSI: A quiet revolution is taking place in rural India, led by women who once limited their aspirations to their homes. Through self-help groups (SHGs) under the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM), these women are transforming their lives and setting powerful examples of empowerment.
Known as “Lakhpati Didis”—women who earn over a lakh of rupees through their entrepreneurial efforts—they are rewriting the narrative of self-sufficiency in their communities.
From managing government ration shops to becoming successful entrepreneurs, these women are breaking traditional barriers and inspiring others to follow suit.
Veena, who now manages a government ration shop, began her journey when a National Rural Livelihood Mission officer introduced her to an SHG. “Ration shops were once run by men, and women didn’t come out to get their rations,” Veena explained.
“But since women like us started running the shop, more women have been coming out, not only to collect rations but also to seek advice on starting their own businesses.”
She added that this shift has encouraged more women to step out of their homes and start their own ventures, further spreading the impact of the ‘Lakhpati Didi’ initiative.
