Gandhinagar: In a heartening example of how sustainable development and women empowerment can go hand in hand, the Lakhpati Didi Yojana is transforming the economic and social landscape of tribal communities in Gujarat’s South Dang region. As part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision to create 2 crore Lakhpati Didis—women earning at least ₹1 lakh annually—the initiative has gained remarkable traction under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel.
Implemented by the South Dang Forest Division, the scheme has offered sustainable livelihoods to tribal women through nursery development and plantation activities. In the financial year 2023–24, Self Help Groups (SHGs) raised 8.5 lakh saplings, benefiting 40 tribal women with direct payments of ₹35 lakh made to their bank accounts by the Forest Department.
A Powerful Model of Women-Led Eco-Enterprise
Beyond financial support, the women were given hands-on training in nursery operations—such as seed sowing, pruning, compost use, and water management—as well as essential financial literacy skills, including banking and budgeting. This holistic approach has enabled them not just to earn but to take complete ownership of their economic futures.
Forest officials ensured transparency by crediting wages directly into the women’s accounts, giving them financial autonomy and dignity in work. Awareness camps also helped in disseminating knowledge and motivating more women to join the initiative.
From Homemakers to Entrepreneurs
What makes this initiative even more powerful is its social impact. These women, once confined to household roles, are now recognized as entrepreneurs and leaders within their communities. Their increasing participation in village-level decision-making marks a new era of social empowerment tied closely to economic independence.
According to forest officials, “These are not just numbers—every sapling raised is a step toward a greener forest and a stronger woman. This is true circular development.”
Environmental Gains Alongside Livelihood Generation
The nursery initiative isn’t just about income—it is also part of a broader eco-restoration and afforestation program. The saplings raised by the SHGs are used in forest restoration drives, helping restore local biodiversity, strengthen climate resilience, and create green cover in the ecologically sensitive South Dang region.
This dual impact—livelihood creation for tribal women and environmental conservation—has positioned Lakhpati Didi Yojana as a model scheme for inclusive and sustainable rural development.
Key Highlights:
- 40 tribal women earned ₹35 lakh by raising 8.5 lakh saplings in 2023–24
- Payments made directly to beneficiaries’ accounts by the Forest Department
- Training provided in nursery practices, banking, and financial planning
- Initiative supports PM Modi’s vision of 2 crore Lakhpati Didis
- Program contributes to eco-restoration and forest conservation
- Enhances social status, confidence, and leadership among tribal women
