Shivraj Singh Chouhan addressed around 400 Jeevika Didis from across the country at Samriddhi Didi with Samriddhi Rashtra: Republic Day Abhinandan Samaroh 2026 held in New Delhi on Sunday, January 25, 2026. Photo Credit:
Union Minister for Rural Development, Agriculture and Farmer Welfare Shivraj Singh Chouhan said on Sunday (January 25, 2026) that the Aajeevika mission has grown beyond a government program to become a “revolution and movement” driven by the economic and social empowerment of women in self-help groups (SHGs). At the Samriddhi Didi event, Samriddhi Rashtra: Republic Day Abhinandan Samaroh 2026 held in New Delhi addressed about 400 Jeevika Didis from across the country.
Appreciating the work of the SHG members, Mr. Chouhan said the women have shown remarkable strength and resilience. He reiterated the centre’s target of creating three million ‘Lakhpati Didis’ and called it a ‘mantra’ that would be achieved soon. Nearly 10 million women were currently associated with SHGs, he noted.
To boost women entrepreneurship, the ministry has launched a comprehensive digital loan system that allows SHG members to apply for and receive loans online from any bank. According to him, the initiative would facilitate access to credit and support the goal of a digitally driven rural economy.
Mr. Chouhan also announced that the Saras Melas, which are currently being held on a limited scale, will be expanded outside Delhi to give SHG products wider market access.
Minister of State Chandrashekhar Pemmasani highlighted the growing role of women in the economy, noting that they contribute 18% to India’s GDP and run nearly 10% of the country’s start-ups.
Published – 25 Jan 2026 20:43 IST
