JAMMU, JAN 16: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah reaffirmed his government’s unwavering commitment to the Umeed Programme, pledging to take all necessary steps to ensure its continued success.
Speaking at the ‘Lakhpati Didi Sammelan’ organized by the J&K Rural Livelihood Mission (JKRLM), the Chief Minister promised to provide the required funds, simplify procedures, and foster the programme’s growth.
Addressing the gathering at the Convention Centre here, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said, “As I stand here, my heart is filled with pride. I want to assure all of you—our daughters, sisters, and mothers—that the government is fully committed to supporting this program. We will take every necessary step to ensure its continued growth, provide the required funds, and simplify procedures to empower more women.”
The Chief Minister highlighted the impact of the Umeed Programme, which has already empowered over 12,000 ‘Lakhpati Didis.’ He expressed hope for the number to grow significantly, emphasizing that financial independence for women benefits not only individuals but society as a whole.
“This programme, which began during my first tenure as Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, has exceeded expectations. Who would have thought that this initiative would lead to the emergence of Lakhpati Didis in Jammu and Kashmir? And yet, here we are, witnessing incredible stories of success, perseverance, and achievement,” said Abdullah.
He lauded the women’s fiscal discipline, which has earned the trust of banks and financial institutions. “Your discipline, responsibility, and commitment to timely repayments have built this trust. If all sectors operate with the same level of integrity and accountability as you do, Jammu and Kashmir’s economic landscape would be transformed,” he added.
The Chief Minister emphasized the transformative power of financial independence for women, stating, “When women—our mothers, sisters, and daughters—become self-reliant, the entire society benefits. It allows you to make your own decisions, shaping a future that is better for you and your families.”
Abdullah further praised the quiet yet impactful progress of the Umeed Programme, noting, “This programme has done wonders, quietly and without fanfare. Where there is noise, there is often politics. But progress made in silence speaks volumes.”
He also highlighted the program’s evolution, pointing out that many women are now not only self-reliant but are also creating employment opportunities for others. “You are no longer just beneficiaries of this program; you are its leaders and torch bearers,” he said.
The Chief Minister urged that the Umeed Programme could serve as a national model, calling for the replication of success stories from other states. He also announced plans to offer training and skill development opportunities for women entrepreneurs across India, with a group already scheduled to travel to Ahmedabad for advanced training.
On the occasion, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah virtually launched several key initiatives to further empower women entrepreneurs under the Umeed Programme. These included the felicitation of 11,936 Lakhpati Didis, the e-delivery of engagement orders for 650 banking correspondents, and the e-inauguration of four Common Training Centres aimed at building the capacity of potential Lakhpati Didis.
Additionally, the Chief Minister witnessed the e-disbursement of loans totaling Rs 50 crore among 2,016 Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and Rs 2.31 crore to 165 Cluster Level Federations (CLFs) for the establishment of mini-custom hiring centers.
To further support women entrepreneurs, the Chief Minister flagged off a group of women entrepreneurs heading to the Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII) in Ahmedabad for advanced training.
The event also featured a documentary showcasing the Umeed Programme’s transformative impact, followed by inspiring success stories shared by two Lakhpati Didis.
The gathering was attended by Minister for Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Javed Ahmad Dar, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Secretary RDD and PR Aijaz Asad, Chief General Manager NABARD J&K, and Mission Director JKRLM, among others.
