Bhopal: Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav said that women associated with the state’s Livelihood Mission are playing a transformative role in strengthening Madhya Pradesh’s rural economy. Addressing the Livelihood Mission Capacity Building Workshop at Kushabhau Thakre Auditorium on Wednesday, he stated that over 65 lakh women are currently connected with more than 5 lakh Self-Help Groups (SHGs) across the state.
Out of these, more than 12 lakh women have achieved the status of “Lakhpati Didi,” reflecting the growing financial independence among rural women.
The Chief Minister emphasized that the collective strength of women working together has turned the saying “Bandh Mutthi Lakh Ki” into reality, bringing visible change to villages across the state.
SHGs Record ₹310 Crore Business in One Year
Dr. Yadav informed that Self-Help Groups have generated business worth ₹310 crore in the past year through partnerships with companies and participation in fairs and exhibitions. He said this performance highlights the increasing strength of the rural economy and the entrepreneurial capabilities of women.
He also noted that women are actively involved in diverse sectors including natural farming, operating cafés, food processing (such as pickle and papad making), meeting market targets, and even handling tractors and drones.
Boost in Women & Child Development Budget 2026-27
The Chief Minister announced that the Women and Child Development Department’s budget for 2026-27 has been increased by 26 percent. Additionally, 34 percent of the total state budget has been allocated for rural development, underlining the government’s focus on empowering rural communities and women entrepreneurs.
He described the current phase as a “golden chapter” in the history of rural women entrepreneurship in Madhya Pradesh.
Natural Farming: 50,000 Women Leading the Way
Madhya Pradesh is emerging as a leading state in natural farming, with over 50,000 women actively engaged in the practice. During the workshop, a natural farming training module was also released to further promote sustainable agricultural practices among women farmers.
Launch of Rural Express Vehicles and Special Holi Hamper
During the event, the Chief Minister flagged off seven vehicles under the Rural Express Scheme to improve connectivity and logistics for Self-Help Groups.
He also launched a special Holi Hamper prepared by women SHGs under the Madhya Pradesh State Rural Livelihood Mission. The hamper includes 10 products such as natural colors, desi ghee, sweets, gokasth, puja materials, and T-shirts. The products were prepared by women from districts including Ujjain, Sagar, Katni, Sehore, and Rewa. A short film based on the initiative was also screened.
Additionally, Livelihood Marts at Gwalior and a retail outlet at Jabalpur Airport were virtually inaugurated, along with Holi fairs organized at divisional and district levels.
MoUs Signed with India Post, Amazon Saheli and Others
In the presence of the Chief Minister, the Madhya Pradesh State Rural Livelihood Mission (MPSRLM) signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with organizations including India Post, Amazon Saheli, Access Development Services, Buddha Institute TRIF, and Sightsavers. These collaborations will enable SHG products to be marketed on e-commerce platforms, expanding their reach to national and global markets.
Five outstanding women from Self-Help Groups were felicitated for their achievements. Meenakshi Faragate from Guna district shared her success story in the marketing sector, inspiring other participants.
Exhibition and Millets Café Attract Attention
The Chief Minister visited the exhibition stalls set up by women SHGs from various districts and interacted with participants. He also tasted local dishes at the Millets Café established at the venue, appreciating the efforts to promote nutritious and traditional food products.
Dr. Yadav reiterated that the state government is fully committed to supporting rural women entrepreneurs and ensuring that their products gain access to larger markets, both online and offline.
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