100 Days of Modi 3.0: Women development remains a key focus

New Delhi, Sep 19: In the first 100 days of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s third term, the government has laid a strong foundation for women-led development and also launched a series of initiatives aimed at empowering women, particularly those from rural and economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

These efforts align with Modi’s vision of transforming India into a developed nation by 2047 and began projects through financial inclusion, social empowerment, housing security, and livelihood creation for women across India that will not only empower women but also become active contributors to the nation’s growth story.

Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission

The Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) has been a cornerstone of the government’s strategy to reduce poverty and boost financial inclusion among women in rural India. Under the Ministry of Rural Development, this flagship program has mobilized over 10 crore women into more than 92 lakh Self-Help Groups (SHGs). These SHGs act as engines of financial independence, digital literacy, and sustainable livelihoods.

DAY-NRLM focuses on forming, nurturing, and strengthening institutions of poor women, enabling them to access various financial and livelihood services. The program’s success is evident in its ability to empower women to break free from the cycle of poverty and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s economic growth.

Lakhpati Didi Yojana: Empowering Women Entrepreneurs

A key highlight of the government’s focus on women-led development is the Lakhpati Didi Yojana, which aims to create a new generation of women entrepreneurs. The scheme recognises women who earn an annual household income of at least Rs 1 lakh. During a recent event in Jalgaon, Maharashtra, Prime Minister Modi awarded certificates to 11 lakh women who have become “Lakhpati Didis.” The program sets an ambitious goal to uplift three crore women to this income bracket in the coming years.

To further support these women, the Prime Minister announced a revolving fund of Rs 2,500 crore for 48 lakh SHG members and disbursed bank loans worth Rs 5,000 crore to benefit 25.8 lakh members of 2.35 lakh SHGs. This infusion of financial resources aims to help SHGs expand their operations, improve livelihoods, and foster economic growth in rural areas.

Union Budget 2024-25: A Commitment to Nari Shakti

The Union Budget for 2024-25, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, reinforced the government’s commitment to women’s empowerment, with a substantial allocation of Rs 3.3 lakh crore across various ministries. This budget focuses on boosting women’s participation in the workforce, enhancing safety and security, and providing support through working women’s hostels and crèches.

Several key initiatives were introduced, including:

Working Women Hostels and Crèches: To support women in the workforce, the government plans to set up hostels and crèches in collaboration with the industry.

Skilling and Employment: A centrally sponsored scheme will skill 20 lakh youth over five years, with a focus on enhancing employability and financial independence for women.

Mudra Loans: The loan limit for women entrepreneurs under the Mudra scheme will be increased from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 20 lakh, supporting business expansion and economic participation.

Inclusive Economic Opportunities: Programs like Stand-Up India and the National Livelihood Missions will be scaled up to support women entrepreneurs, artisans, and SHGs.

These initiatives collectively aim to create an ecosystem of support for women, enabling them to play a vital role in India’s development.

Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY): Housing for Women’s Empowerment

Housing security has been another significant area of focus. Over 70% of houses built under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) have been allocated to women. This not only provides them with ownership and financial security but also elevates their social status within communities. Since the scheme’s inception, 4.21 crore houses have been sanctioned, with an additional 3 crore houses planned for the future.

PMAY’s emphasis on making women the owners or co-owners of houses, especially in economically weaker sections, has empowered them with a sense of stability and confidence. The scheme also promotes sustainable and disaster-resilient construction practices, ensuring affordable and safe housing for all.

A Collaborative Approach

Addressing the challenges faced by women in rural areas requires a multi-stakeholder approach. The government has partnered with NGOs, private organizations, and local communities to ensure that women are equipped with the necessary resources to lift themselves out of poverty. These collaborations have been crucial in reaching the last mile and creating sustainable change.