Assam Pushes Women Into Entrepreneurship With New Seed Capital Scheme

Guwahati: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma touted the state government's Mukhyamantri Mahila Udyamita Abhiyan on Maha Navami. He linked the festival's spirit of achievement to his push for female financial independence. The goal is simple. He wants eligible women in self-help groups to become Lakhpati Baideus, meaning they bring home at least Rs 1 lakh every year.

The cash flow starts with Rs 10,000 in seed capital during the first year. Sarma explained that women who handle the money well get a second-year boost of Rs 25,000, which splits between state funds and bank loans. A final infusion of Rs 50,000 follows in year three. Sarma stated, "The scheme aims to help eligible women members of self-help groups become Lakhpati Baideus, with annual earnings of at least Rs 1 lakh."

Women are already turning these funds into functioning businesses. They run bakeries, process food, manage fish farms, and grow vegetables across the state. These enterprises generate jobs and spark hope in local villages. Drawing a parallel to the deity Maa Siddhidatri, Sarma credited the current momentum to the grit and self-belief of the women involved.