State-level Rural Entrepreneurship Development Workshop held
By OUR STAFF REPORTER
Dehradun, 13 Nov: At a state-level rural entrepreneurship development workshop held in Bhararisain (Gairsain), today, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced that the government is working with the goal of making one and a half lakh women “Lakhpati Didis” by 2025.
The Chief Minister said that holding this workshop in the summer capital itself was a historic opportunity. He assured that the government would seriously implement the suggestions received during the workshop and find solutions to all the challenges faced by rural entrepreneurs. The Chief Minister stated, “Since day one, the government has been following the principles of simplification and resolution of problems, and the positive results are now becoming evident.” Over the past three years, substantial work has been done in the field of self-employment. Although difficulties arise at the beginning of any endeavour, women and youth are now making significant strides in the self-employment sector. Through various government schemes, over a lakh women in the state have already become “Lakhpati Didis.”
The Chief Minister recalled how he had observed his mother working during his childhood, and therefore understood the difficulties faced by women. He mentioned that, today, women are creating excellent products either through self-help groups or private ventures, and the demand for these products exists globally. The government is facilitating marketing for these products through initiatives like the Saras Mela and House of Himalayas brand. “While creating products, you must ensure quality, packaging, and cleanliness. If these aspects are disciplined, success is inevitable,” he said. The government is working to create more business and self-reliance opportunities in rural areas to curb migration. He emphasised that women play a crucial role in reducing migration.
The Chief Minister added that, under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government is particularly focused on empowering women. “Self-help groups are being provided with interest-free loans of up to five lakh rupees,” he added. Additionally, the Sashakt Bahna Utsav Yojana and the CM Women Self-Help Group Scheme are being implemented. Under the Women’s Self-Help Group Scheme, over 84 crore rupees have been provided, with a 25 crore rupee interest subsidy. He further mentioned that the Sashakt Bahna Utsav Yojana has generated a business of over 4.2 crore rupees. “The government is also setting up outlets for women’s groups on travel routes, and products from these groups will soon be available at House of Himalayas outlets in Delhi,” he said. The Chief Minister reiterated that the government is working toward the goal of making one and a half lakh women “Lakhpati Didis” by 2025.
The Chief Minister also reminded the audience of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s five requests to every resident of Uttarakhand, urging everyone to work towards making the state an ideal model for the nation.
During the event, rural entrepreneurs and women associated with self-help groups from various districts shared their experiences and provided suggestions on rural entrepreneurship. The programme was attended by Karnaprayag MLA Anil Nautiyal, Tharali MLA Bhopal Ram Tamta, BJP District President Ramesh Maikhuri, Vice Chairman of the Migration Prevention Commission SS Negi, Member Ramprakash Paniyuli, and Rural Development Commissioner Dhiraj Garbyal, among other officials.
