Chhattisgarh CM Asks Women: 'Mahatari Vandana Money Reaching You, Right?'
Digital Desk
In a significant push for women's empowerment, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Friday highlighted his government's initiatives aimed at making women self-reliant. Addressing a public event in Raipur, the CM directly interacted with women beneficiaries, asking them if the financial aid from the 'Mahatari Vandana' scheme was successfully reaching their bank accounts.
The Chief Minister emphasized the collaborative efforts of the central and state governments to empower women. He reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi's resolve to create 3 crore 'Lakhpati Didis' (women millionaires) across the country, announcing that a major milestone has been achieved with 2 crore women already benefiting from the initiative in the state so far.
In a move set to significantly expand market access, CM Sai announced a new partnership with e-commerce giant Flipkart. This collaboration will allow women, particularly those in self-help groups, to sell their products on a national and international platform, thereby boosting their income and business scalability.
Citing an example of local innovation, the Chief Minister pointed to the diversification of Mahua products in Jashpur district. He noted that Mahua is no longer just used for liquor but is now being utilized to make products like laddoos, pickles, and sanitizers, showcasing a smart use of local resources and creating new livelihood opportunities.
The state government also plans to entrust women's self-help groups with the business of ready-to-eat food products, a move expected to generate further employment. The CM's direct question, "Is the Mahatari Vandana money reaching you?" underscores the government's focus on ensuring the effective on-ground implementation of its welfare schemes for women.