Lakhpati Didis drivers of developed India: Chouhan

Nari Shakti at play with all-women contingents

- Vrinda Tulsian

NEW DELHI: The rural development ministry's tableau this year showcased the Centre's flagship women's entrepreneurship programme — Lakhpati Didi Yojana — as it called the scheme a testament to not only economic prosperity, but the "growing strength and self-reliance of the sisters in our society".

The scheme, which aims to ensure a minimum income of ₹1 lakh to members of self-help groups, was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2023 during his Independence Day speech.

During the 76th Republic Day on Kartavya Path on Sunday, the massive tableau featured a radiant statue of "Lakhpati Didi", symbolising a successful woman entrepreneur. Surrounding scenes depicted women engaged in various economic activities like weaving, handicrafts, and agriculture, highlighting the transformative impact of the initiative on women's livelihoods. Motifs related to rural India, such as pottery, local crafts and flora, were part of the tableau, making it visually rooted in the Indian countryside.