Assam, October 20: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has underscored the importance of women’s self-reliance and entrepreneurship in a Maha Navami message, highlighting the Mukhyamantri Mahila Udyamita Abhiyan and its role in supporting eligible women members of self-help groups across the state.
In his post on X, Sarma offered prayers to Maa Siddhidatri, who is worshipped on Maha Navami as the goddess of accomplishment and success. He drew a parallel between the festival’s spiritual significance and the efforts of women who are building their own businesses with financial assistance and determination.
Under the state government’s initiative, eligible women members of self-help groups receive ₹10,000 in seed capital during the first year to help them start or develop income-generating activities. Beneficiaries who utilise the initial assistance effectively can access ₹25,000 in the second year, comprising state government support and a bank loan in equal shares. The programme envisages further assistance of ₹50,000 in the third year, subject to applicable conditions.
The initiative aims to help beneficiaries become “Lakhpati Baideus”, a term used for women earning an annual income of at least ₹1 lakh. Sarma highlighted several activities through which women are generating income, including bakery businesses, food processing, fish farming and vegetable cultivation.
Beyond improving household earnings, women-led enterprises can create employment opportunities and encourage others in rural communities to pursue entrepreneurship. The Chief Minister noted that women who establish successful ventures are helping create new sources of work and hope in their villages.
Sarma said these achievements were being built through hard work and self-belief rather than chance. He concluded his message by seeking Maa Siddhidatri’s blessings for women across Assam, wishing them success in their ambitions and entrepreneurial endeavours.
The message places women’s economic empowerment at the centre of the state government’s stated vision of expanding livelihood opportunities and encouraging greater financial independence among women.
