Lakhpati Didi Scheme: The government is implementing the ‘Lakhpati Didi’ initiative to empower rural women economically. Its primary objective is to provide women in Self-Help Groups (SHGs) with livelihood and business opportunities that enable their families to achieve an annual income of at least ₹1 lakh—an income level sustainable over the long term. According to the official definition, a ‘Lakhpati Didi’ is a member whose annual income is ₹1 lakh or more, sustained across at least four agricultural seasons or four business cycles.

What is the objective of the Lakhpati Didi Scheme?

The scheme aims not merely to provide financial assistance to rural women but to create a sustainable source of income for them. To achieve this, the focus is on linking women to various livelihood and business activities, providing training, offering financial support, and connecting them to markets. Opportunities to boost income include agriculture, animal husbandry, small businesses, services, and other non-farm activities.

What is required to become a ‘Lakhpati Didi’?

A key requirement is that the woman must be a member of a Self-Help Group (SHG). Official guidelines outline specific criteria for identifying ‘Lakhpati Didis’. Priority is given to SHG members who have completed at least two years of membership, have availed benefits from the Community Investment Fund, and are engaged in livelihood-related activities under the mission. States and Union Territories can determine additional criteria based on local conditions. Consequently, applying a uniform eligibility rule across the country—such as a specific age range (e.g., 18–55 years) or a family income cap (e.g., below ₹3 lakh)—is not appropriate; eligibility and selection processes may vary by state.

What kind of women receive training?

Under the Lakhpati Didi initiative, women are engaged through various models tailored to their local needs and income-generating opportunities. These models often centre around agriculture and farm-based businesses. Activities include animal husbandry, dairy and milk production, food processing, tailoring and embroidery, textile-related work, small household industries, and running shops or other businesses.

Loans for ‘Lakhpati Didis’

While specific financial assistance and bank loan facilities are available for women in Self-Help Groups (SHGs), it is crucial to understand that becoming a ‘Lakhpati Didi’ does not automatically entitle every woman to a direct personal loan of ₹20 lakh. According to the official portal, SHGs are eligible for collateral-free bank loans of up to ₹20 lakh. Additionally, SHGs receive an interest subvention (subsidy) on bank credit. Women-led enterprises also benefit from credit guarantee facilities and interest subvention.

Benefits for Jan-Dhan Account Holders

According to official information, all SHG women members who hold a Jan-Dhan account can access an overdraft facility of up to ₹ 5,000.
This facility is provided subject to the scheme’s rules and eligibility criteria.

How ​​to become a ‘Lakhpati Didi’?

If you are a rural woman associated with an SHG, you can contact officials from the Rural Livelihood Mission. First, verify your SHG membership details. Next, select a business activity based on your interest.

Documents required for application?

Please note that requirements may vary depending on state government policies and specific SHG program procedures. Generally, you will need details on identity proof, bank accounts, and SHG membership. Therefore, before applying, it is advisable to check the list of necessary documents with your SHG, Village Organisation (VO), Cluster Level Federation (CLF), or the Rural Livelihood Mission office.

Conclusion

The ‘Lakhpati Didi’ initiative aims to make rural women self-reliant and sustainably increase their family income. To achieve this, Self-Help Groups provide opportunities for training, livelihood activities, financial assistance, bank loans, and market linkages. If you wish to join this initiative, please get in touch with your nearest Self-Help Group (SHG) or the Rural Livelihood Mission.