JULY 04: In a significant recognition of grassroots women entrepreneurs, Union Minister for Agriculture, Farmers Welfare and Rural Development, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, participated as Chief Guest at the “Lakhpati Didi Sammelan” organized by the Jammu & Kashmir Rural Livelihoods Mission (JKRLM) in Khonmoh. The event celebrated the growing success of rural women across Jammu & Kashmir in becoming economically self-reliant through government-supported self-help groups (SHGs).
Joined by J&K’s Minister for Rural Development and Public Relations, Mr. Javid Ahmad Dar, the Minister addressed hundreds of women beneficiaries who have achieved “Lakhpati” status—earning more than ₹1 lakh annually—through various livelihood and entrepreneurship initiatives. The attendees shared their journeys of transformation, resilience, and independence.
Speaking at the Sammelan, Shri Chouhan applauded the remarkable progress made by these women and declared them the “real change makers” of rural India. “The Government of India stands firmly with every woman striving for empowerment and dignity,” he affirmed. He further highlighted the success of national flagship schemes such as the Ladli Lakshmi Yojana and Ladki Behna Scheme, which are actively transforming women’s lives by offering financial support, skills training, and social protection.
The Minister also took the opportunity to honor six standout achievers—Manisha Devi, Taja Begum, Soni Devi, Parveena, Samiya Jan, and Shubeena Jan—for their exemplary contributions to community development through entrepreneurship. Each received a certificate of appreciation for not only building livelihoods for themselves but also creating employment opportunities for others in their communities.
Minister Javid Ahmad Dar thanked Shri Chouhan for his presence, calling the event a morale booster and a catalyst for future rural development in the region. The gathering reflected a growing movement of economically empowered women in Jammu & Kashmir, driven by coordinated efforts from JKRLM, the Rural Development Department, and national schemes under the Ministry.
Women beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the government’s consistent support in helping them attain financial independence, enhance their skills, and live with confidence and dignity. The Sammelan marks another milestone in India’s rural transformation, where empowered women are emerging as pillars of inclusive development.