Assam, October 20: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has highlighted the importance of women’s economic independence on the occasion of Maha Navami, pointing to the Mukhyamantri Mahila Udyamita Abhiyan as a key initiative aimed at helping women build sustainable livelihoods and become successful entrepreneurs.
In a post on X, Sarma invoked the blessings of Maa Siddhidatri, worshipped on Maha Navami as the goddess of accomplishment and success. Drawing a connection between the festival’s message and women’s empowerment, he said eligible women members of self-help groups across Assam were receiving financial support to transform their efforts into income-generating enterprises.
Under the initiative, eligible beneficiaries receive ₹10,000 as seed capital in the first year. Women who make effective use of the initial assistance can become eligible for ₹25,000 in the second year, with half of the amount provided by the state government and the remaining half through a bank loan. The programme also envisages ₹50,000 in assistance in the third year, subject to the scheme’s applicable requirements.
The state government’s broader objective is to help women become “Lakhpati Baideus” by earning at least ₹1 lakh annually. Sarma cited activities such as baking, food processing, fish farming and vegetable cultivation as examples of ventures through which women are building their livelihoods.
According to the Chief Minister, the benefits of women-led businesses extend beyond individual households. By creating employment and encouraging other women in their communities, successful beneficiaries can contribute to stronger rural economies and greater financial self-reliance.
Sarma concluded his message by praying for Maa Siddhidatri’s blessings for women across Assam, expressing hope that they would continue to achieve their goals through hard work, determination and self-belief.
The message brings together the significance of Maha Navami with the state government’s stated ambition to expand women’s entrepreneurial opportunities and improve their economic prospects.
