The NRLM’s LakhpatiDidi initiative is sparking newfound empowerment and hope among JKRLM Self-Help Group members, ushering in inspiring tales of rural women and encouraging others to strive for LakhpatiDidi status.
A “LakhpatiDidi” refers to a member of a Self-Help Group who achieves an annual household income of Rupees One Lakh (₹1,00,000) or above.
NayeemaAkhter (26), a resident of Budgam, faced challenges in sustaining a livelihood and supporting her father. Her fortunes changed when she discovered JKRLM in 2016.
In an interview with Rising Kashmir, she revealed that coming from a modest background, she initiated a Self-Help Group (SHG) and enlisted 20 other women to collectively endeavor.
“We embarked on crafting handmade products, and it flourished. This was the empowerment desired by the girls around us. We took charge of marketing our products ourselves to earn a livelihood and achieve independence,” she remarked.
Recently, she participated in an exhibition in Gurgaon, reaping a substantial income. She also independently facilitated the marriages of her two sisters and provided support to her father, epitomizing independence and empowerment through JKRLM and other government subsidies.
Anita Kumari, an SHG member affiliated with JKRLM from District Reasi, proudly declared herself a LakhpatiDidi of JKRLM, boasting an annual income exceeding one lakh.
She emphasized the significance of collectively commemorating Women’s Day as an opportunity to amplify efforts and empower women grappling against societal norms. She mentioned her involvement in dealing with organic species, agriculture, mushrooms, aloe vera, etc.
“The current government has been instrumental in women’s empowerment. They have undertaken numerous initiatives that instilled confidence in us to continue our journey. This journey has empowered women and fueled our drive to contribute to society,” she asserted.
Significantly, the Umeed scheme has been effectively rolled out in Jammu & Kashmir, with extensive outreach across all 20 districts. To date, 7.4 lakh rural women have been federated into over 89,000 Self-Help Groups (SHGs).
