Rajnandgaon, Chhattisgarh | November 5, 2025 The Vice-President of India, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, today attended the “Lakhpati Didi Sammelan” at Rajnandgaon, Chhattisgarh, and hailed the initiative as a remarkable model of women-led development, empowerment, and grassroots democracy.
Addressing the gathering, the Vice-President said that the Lakhpati Didi movement reflects the strength, determination, and resilience of Indian women who are transforming challenges into opportunities. He noted that the term “Lakhpati Didi” signifies not merely income but embodies independence, dignity, and confidence.
Highlighting the success of the programme, Shri Radhakrishnan praised the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to create three crore Lakhpati Didis, describing it as an extraordinary step toward building a women-led development model that is flourishing across India, particularly in Chhattisgarh.
Empowering Women at the Grassroots
The Vice-President applauded the achievements of over two crore women nationwide and five lakh women in Chhattisgarh who have achieved financial independence through self-help groups and income-generating activities.
He commended the focused efforts of the State Government and the District Administration, Rajnandgaon, for connecting more than one lakh women through 9,663 Self-Help Groups and providing over ₹700 crore in financial assistance.
He also noted the disbursal of more than ₹13,000 crore under the Mahila Samman Yojana through 20 instalments, empowering women across the state.
Describing Rajnandgaon as a symbol of women’s empowerment, Shri Radhakrishnan highlighted that over 1,000 women actively participate in local self-governance as Panch, Sarpanch, Janpad, and Zila Panchayat members.
He remarked, “Democracy lives not only in Parliament but in gram sabhas, panchayats, and self-help groups, where citizens decide and develop together.”
Peace, Power, and Progress in Chhattisgarh
The Vice-President lauded Chhattisgarh’s transformation from a power-deficient state to a power-surplus hub, contributing to national electricity generation.
He also praised the joint efforts of the Centre, State Government, and security forces in curbing Naxalism, calling peace and progress in the state a result of collective political will and development-oriented governance.
Drawing a parallel with the recent victory of the Indian Women’s Cricket Team in the World Cup, Shri Radhakrishnan said that the women of Chhattisgarh are similarly driving social transformation through their determination and leadership.
Healthcare and Development Initiatives
During the event, the Vice-President inaugurated a new five-storey facility at Udayachal Health and Research Institute, acknowledging its vital role in achieving a “Cataract-Free Chhattisgarh” and advancing public health through tree plantation and tuberculosis eradication campaigns.
He emphasized India’s progress toward a Cataract-Free Bharat, appreciating the achievements of the National Netra Jyoti Abhiyan and the expansion of healthcare accessibility through Ayushman Bharat, Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, and the PM–Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission.
Commitment to Inclusive Growth
Concluding his address, Shri Radhakrishnan saluted the Lakhpati Didis for their courage and perseverance, expressing hope that they would soon become Crorepati Didis.
He reaffirmed that both Central and State Governments are working hand in hand to create and distribute wealth equitably, thereby strengthening the foundation of inclusive and sustainable growth.
The event was graced by Governor of Chhattisgarh Shri Ramen Deka, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai, and Speaker of the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly Dr. Raman Singh.
Earlier in the day, the Vice-President also witnessed a spectacular air show by the Indian Air Force’s Suryakiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) in Nava Raipur, as part of the Chhattisgarh Rajat Mahotsav celebrations marking the 25th anniversary of the state’s formation.
