Context: With the aim of creating two crore women entrepreneurs in villages, the Union Finance Minister announced expansion of the Lakhpati Didi Scheme in her Interim Budget 2024–25 speech.

Aim: To financially empower women in rural areas and promote their entrepreneurial spirit.

Key Features:

1. Target beneficiaries: Women members of existing or newly formed SHGs in rural areas.
2. Participants: Must be active members of self-help groups.
3. Financial assistance: Interest-free loan of Rs. 5 lakh per SHG for initiating or expanding income-generating activities.
4. Market linkages: Connecting SHGs with markets through fairs, exhibitions, and digital platforms.

Significance:

1.    Increase in income: Help women earn a sustainable income of at least Rs. 1 lakh annually per household.

2.    Financial inclusion: Bring more women into the formal financial system by encouraging them to join self-help groups (SHGs).

3.    Women empowerment: Create a network of successful women entrepreneurs who can inspire and support others.