Chhattisgarh today stands at a golden stage of its development journey, and at the center of this transformation are the state’s women—affectionately known as “Mahatari”. Under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Mr. Vishnu Deo Sai, women in the state have transitioned from being beneficiaries of welfare schemes to becoming agents of social and economic change.
The state government has made women’s empowerment a central pillar of its policy framework, focusing on financial independence, entrepreneurship, health, and education. Through a series of progressive schemes, Chhattisgarh is redefining the narrative of women-led development in India.
Transforming Lives Through Flagship Schemes
The Mahatari Vandan Yojana stands as one of the most impactful initiatives, with approximately 7 million women receiving Rs. 212,983 crore in assistance. This direct financial support not only strengthens household security but also enables women to make key decisions in their families and communities.
The Didi E-Rickshaw Scheme has empowered over 12,000 women with self-employment opportunities. Similarly, under the Saksham Scheme, 32,000 women entrepreneurs have received business loans of up to Rs. 2 lakh at a concessional interest rate of 3 percent. The Mahatari Shakti Loan Scheme has extended collateral-free loans to 50,000 women, promoting entrepreneurship and self-reliance.
Additionally, under the Chief Minister’s Sewing Machine Assistance Scheme, 1.15 lakh women are now earning sustainable incomes while managing their households.
From Rural Struggles to Success Stories
The ripple effect of these initiatives can be seen in inspiring stories across Chhattisgarh.
- Ms. Rato Bai of Kondagaon, once living under the shadow of Naxal violence, now leads a dignified life in a pucca house built under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Gramin) and earns a living by selling vegetables.
- The Gangadevi Self-Help Group (SHG) in Dantewada district now operates a Tata Magic vehicle, earning Rs. 26,000 per month.
- Ms. Shyama Singh from Surguja expanded her small business under the Bihan Yojana, growing from 30 to 152 centering plates and earning Rs. 50,000 monthly.
- Ms. Manjhanin Bai of Korba, employed at a health center funded by DMF, receives a monthly honorarium of Rs. 9,000, symbolizing both financial stability and social respect.
Bastar: From Conflict to Confidence
Once synonymous with Naxalite violence, Bastar is now emerging as a symbol of peace, progress, and empowerment. According to Mr. Vishnu Deo Sai, “Rebuilding Bastar is not just about constructing roads and bridges; it’s about lighting the lamp of faith in every home.”
Under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, 15,000 special housing units were approved, of which 3,000 are being constructed across Bastar, Sukma, Kanker, Bijapur, and Dantewada. Over 12,000 families now live in secure housing. Chhattisgarh currently has 280,362 women’s self-help groups, nearly 60,000 of which are active in Bastar.
Through forest produce-based enterprises and handicrafts, women-led groups are generating crores in business. Under the Lakhpati Mahila Mission, 2,000 women now earn over Rs. 1 lakh annually. Traditional cane and bamboo products from Jashpur and Bastar have gained national recognition, demonstrating the economic potential of local craftsmanship.
Empowerment Through Health, Technology, and Safety
To ensure health and convenience, 1.59 lakh LPG connections have been distributed under the Ujjwala Yojana, promoting clean kitchens and healthy families. “Clean kitchens, healthy families, and empowered women — that’s the essence of Ujjwala,” said Mr. Sai.
Women’s safety and support mechanisms have been strengthened through Sakhi One-Stop Centers in all 27 districts, 24×7 Women’s Helplines (181 and 112), and the Nawabihan Scheme, which provides legal and counseling aid. The Shuchita Scheme benefits over 3 lakh adolescent girls, with 2,000 schools equipped with sanitary napkin vending machines.
Technological empowerment is also gaining momentum. Under the Drone Didi Scheme, women are being trained to operate drones for agricultural and developmental purposes. Nearly 500 women are earning around Rs. 10,000 per month through products marketed under the Jashpure Brand, with SHG items gaining prominence at Udyam Mall in Nava Raipur.
A State Where Women Lead the Change
According to Ms. Lakshmi Rajwade, Minister of Women and Child Development, “The new Chhattisgarh will be one where there is trust, not fear; where women are empowered, not dependent.”
Indeed, the spirit of transformation now burns in every home and village across Chhattisgarh. From financial independence to leadership, women are no longer waiting for change—they are driving it themselves.
Through its integrated approach to empowerment and development, Chhattisgarh has set an example for the nation, demonstrating that when women rise, the state prospers.
Also Read: Chhattisgarh Shines in Ekta Parade: Bastar’s Culture, Art, and Rapid Development Take Center Stage
