Jaipur, October 3 (Daily Kiran) : Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma of Rajasthan recently announced significant strides in women’s economic empowerment within the state. Speaking at the Nari Shakti Conference held at University Commerce College, Sharma revealed that over 26 lakh women have received training under the ‘Lakshmi Didi’ initiative, with nearly 20 lakh achieving the status of ‘Lakshmi Didi’—a term denoting financial independence.
Sharma emphasized the critical role of women’s participation and entrepreneurship in building a self-reliant and prosperous Rajasthan. He stated that women are not only integral to society but also serve as the foundation for family, community, and national development. The respect and empowerment of women, he added, are hallmarks of a civilized society.
Highlighting the importance of women’s strength in Indian tradition, Sharma referenced revered figures such as Goddess Durga, Goddess Saraswati, and Goddess Lakshmi, who symbolize power, knowledge, and prosperity. He also acknowledged the contributions of historical figures like Devi Ahilyabai Holkar, Rani Lakshmibai, and Savitribai Phule, whose courage and commitment continue to inspire society.
The Chief Minister pointed out that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has consistently recognized the contributions of mothers, sisters, and daughters in strengthening the nation. Over the past 12 years, various initiatives have been launched to improve the living standards, education, health, and economic independence of women.
Programs such as ‘Beti Bachao-Beti Padhao’, the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, the Swachh Bharat Mission, and the Jal Jeevan Mission have significantly eased women’s lives. The ‘MUDRA’ scheme has created self-employment opportunities for women, while the ‘Lakshmi Didi’ initiative aims to enhance their financial self-sufficiency.
Sharma also mentioned the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana and the Nari Shakti Vandan Act, which seek to increase opportunities for women in leadership roles. He highlighted that the Rajasthan government has implemented several measures for women’s welfare over the last two and a half years, including raising financial assistance under the Matru Vandana Yojana from ₹5,000 to ₹6,500.
Additionally, he noted that 5.74 lakh sonography coupons have been issued under the ‘Maa Voucher Scheme’, and eligible families can obtain LPG cylinders for ₹450. To promote girls’ education, the state government has distributed 13.85 lakh bicycles to female students.
The Chief Minister also announced that approximately 46,000 scooters have been provided under the Kalibai Higher Education Scooter Scheme and the Devanarayan Student Scooter Scheme. The ‘Mukhyamantri Ekal Nari Samman Pension Yojana’ has benefited around 19 lakh pensioners, distributing a total of ₹8,866 crore.
Furthermore, under the ‘Lado Protsahan Yojana’, eligible low-income families receive a savings bond of ₹1.5 lakh upon the birth of a daughter. Sharma confirmed that the honorarium for Anganwadi workers, assistants, creche workers, and ‘Sathins’ has seen a 10% annual increase over the past three years.
Currently, 1.22 crore women and girls in Rajasthan receive free sanitary napkins every month. The Chief Minister reiterated that the commitment, hard work, and collective strength of women will play a vital role in making Rajasthan self-reliant and economically prosperous. He believes that women’s participation is crucial for achieving the vision of a developed India and a developed Rajasthan by 2047.
During the event, Sharma also flagged off 60 ambulances for the National Health Mission, nine articulating water towers, and 185 auto-tippers. He handed over scooter keys to beneficiaries selected as ‘Lakshmi Didis’, furthering the state’s commitment to empowering women through various initiatives.
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