Union Minister of Agriculture, Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan visited the ICAR–Directorate of Groundnut Research in Junagadh, Gujarat today. During the visit, he reviewed the institute’s key activities and interacted with farmers and women members of Self-Help Groups (SHGs). On this occasion, the Union Minister released a compilation of 50 inspiring success stories of ‘Lakhpati Didis’—women earning over ₹1 lakh annually under the National Rural Livelihood Mission. He also unveiled the institute’s Annual Report for 2024.
Extending Raksha Bandhan greetings to the women, Shri Chouhan stated,
“It is the government’s firm commitment to ensure that every woman becomes self-reliant, economically empowered, and independent.”
He announced that 1.5 crore women have already become ‘Lakhpati Didis’, and the government is set to achieve the target of 2 crore by August 15.
The Minister praised SHG women as catalysts of change, saying:
“These women are breaking societal barriers and leading the way in economic transformation.”
He highlighted Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of enhancing women’s participation in the economy, adding that empowering women in villages is no longer an option but a necessity.
Shri Chouhan emphasized that if rural women are provided with the right skill training, timely bank credit, and essential infrastructure, they can deliver extraordinary results. He noted that ‘Lakhpati Didis’ are playing a crucial role in taking local products to national and global platforms.
A Salute to Women’s Spiri:
Concluding his address, Shri Chouhan lauded the hard work and determination of women, saying:
“Your courage and dedication are commendable. Prime Minister Modi stands with you every step of the way. In the coming days, efforts will be made to increase women's participation in the industrial sector as well. Your efforts will be instrumental in building a Viksit Bharat. Wishing you all the very best for the future.”
