Uttarakhand has reached a new milestone in women’s empowerment. The number of Lakhpati Didi in the state has crossed 3.03 lakh. Notably, these women now earn more than ₹1 lakh a year. Moreover, the state has set a target of 1.12 lakh new Lakhpati Didi in 2026–27.
What Is a Lakhpati Didi?
A Lakhpati Didi is a self-help group (SHG) woman who earns at least ₹1 lakh a year. Uttarakhand started its Lakhpati Didi scheme in November 2022. It works under the Uttarakhand State Rural Livelihood Mission. So far, the state has met every yearly target ahead of time.
Key Figures
- Lakhpati Didi by 2025–26: 3,03,696
- Target for 2026–27: 1.12 lakh more women
- Women in SHGs: 5,19,943 across 95 blocks of all 13 districts
- SHGs formed: 70,767
- Village organisations: 8,179
- Cluster Level Federations: 615
How Women Are Earning
SHG women run many small businesses with grants and loans. For example, they work in organic farming, food processing and spice making. Also, they run handicraft, dairy, beekeeping and mushroom units. Similarly, many women now run homestays. Recently, millet-based bakery products have also grown in demand.
Market Support
The state has built a support system for processing and sales. In particular, it runs 24 growth centres, 33 nano packaging units and 17 Saras centres. Furthermore, Saras fairs connect SHGs to bigger markets. In addition, the House of Himalayas brand has given these products national and global reach.
Other Steps for Women
Uttarakhand gives women 30 per cent horizontal reservation in government jobs. Likewise, women get 33 per cent reservation in cooperative societies. The state also runs schemes like Mukhyamantri Ekal Mahila Swarozgar Yojana, Drone Didi and Solar Sakhi.
Why Lakhpati Didi Matters for UKPSC
Notably, UKPSC often asks about women-focused schemes and SHGs. So, remember the 3.03 lakh figure, the 2022 start and the House of Himalayas brand. Also, link this story with rural livelihoods and migration. For official updates, also visit the Uttarakhand Government portal. Next, for a related story, read about Uttarakhand’s homestay scheme and reverse migration. You can also download our free Uttarakhand Current Affairs magazine.
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