Vice President participated in the ‘Lakhpati Didi Conference’ in Rajnandgaon, Chhattisgarh
Vice President lauded Chhattisgarh’s transition from power deficit to surplus
Vice President appreciated the joint efforts of the Center, state, and security forces in curbing Naxalism
Peace and progress in Chhattisgarh a result of collective political will and development-oriented governance
Democracy resides not just in Parliament, but also in Gram Sabhas, Panchayats, and Self-Help Groups: Vice President
Vice President lauded Chhattisgarh’s progress in healthcare – from cataract-free initiatives to the implementation of Ayushman Bharat
Raipur, November 5, 2025/ Vice President Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan today participated in the “Lakhpati Didi Conference” in Rajnandgaon, Chhattisgarh.
Addressing the gathering, the Vice President lauded the ‘Lakhpati Didi’ initiative, calling it a testament to the strength and determination of India’s women.
He said this initiative reflects the resolve of these women – the Didis – who are transforming challenges into opportunities. The Vice President stated that the term “Lakhpati Didi” symbolizes not just income, but freedom, dignity, and self-confidence.
He mentioned that thousands of women-led Self-Help Groups across the country are demonstrating how hard work, discipline, and unity can bring about life-changing transformations. He emphasized that the achievements of these women underscore the transformative power of our sisters in rural India, who form the backbone of the nation.
Appreciating the government’s efforts, he stated that the Honorable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s dream of creating three crore Lakhpati Didis is an extraordinary step towards women-led development – a movement that has found a clear manifestation in Chhattisgarh.
The Vice President lauded the growing leadership of women in Chhattisgarh and across the country. He described the ‘Lakhpati Didi’ initiative as a vibrant movement that has enabled more than two crore women nationwide and five lakh women in Chhattisgarh to achieve financial independence through Self-Help Groups and income-generation activities.
He commended the dedicated efforts of the state government and the Rajnandgaon district administration, which have connected over one lakh women through 9,663 Self-Help Groups and provided financial assistance exceeding ₹700 crore. He also noted that the direct transfer of over ₹13,000 crore in 20 installments by the state under the Mahila Samman Yojana has empowered women beneficiaries.
Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan highlighted Rajnandgaon’s unique position as a symbol of women’s empowerment, stating that over 1,000 women are active in local governance as Panch, Sarpanch, Janpad, and Zila Panchayat members. He underscored the fact that democracy is not confined to Parliament but resides in Gram Sabhas, Panchayats, and Self-Help Groups, where citizens collectively deliberate, decide, and develop. He stated that the Lakhpati Didi movement strengthens the roots of democracy by ensuring participation, transparency, and local empowerment.
He said that such initiatives have shattered the notion that women should be confined to domestic roles. Today, they are emerging as administrators, achieving economic independence, and inspiring future leaders.
The Vice President lauded the courage and determination of the Lakhpati Didis in overcoming all obstacles with governmental support and expressed hope that they will soon become Crorepatis.
Recounting the progress in Chhattisgarh, he mentioned that there was a time when the state faced a deficit in water, power, and development, but today it is a power-surplus state catering to the needs of the entire country and has made remarkable strides in healthcare.
He also appreciated the successful efforts to eradicate the Naxal problem from the region, attributing it to the collaborative approach of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah, the state government, and the security forces.
The Vice President further stated that wealth creation is as important as its distribution. He added that the central and state governments are engaged in effectively achieving these goals, which has helped mitigate challenges like Naxalism.
Referring to the recent victory of the Indian women’s cricket team in the World Cup, Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan drew an inspiring parallel with the social transformation being spearheaded by the women of Chhattisgarh. He lauded their courage, resilience, and contribution to the nation’s progress.
Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan also recalled the fulfillment of Prime Minister Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s dream with the formation of Chhattisgarh on November 1, 2000, and expressed pride in supporting the bill as a Member of Parliament.
Concluding his address, the Vice President expressed confidence that Chhattisgarh and Rajnandgaon will continue to set exemplary precedents in empowerment, democracy, and culture.
During the Lakhpati Didi Conference held in Rajnandgaon, various social initiatives run by women’s groups were showcased before Vice President Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan. These included assistive devices self-manufactured by differently-abled individuals. Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan lauded the leadership of women in public welfare, management of natural resources, and community development through these innovative initiatives.
Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan also inaugurated a new five-story building at the Udayachal Health and Research Institute in Rajnandgaon. He appreciated the institute’s significant role in making Chhattisgarh cataract-free and its commitment to tackling tuberculosis and promoting tree plantation drives.
The Vice President highlighted the national progress towards a cataract-free India. He mentioned the remarkable achievements of the National Eye Donation Campaign. He also pointed out that initiatives like Ayushman Bharat, Ayushman Arogya Mandir, and the PM-ABHIM are bringing about widespread changes in healthcare accessibility across the country.
Governor of Chhattisgarh Shri Raman Deca; Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai; Speaker of the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly Dr. Raman Singh were present at both the programs held in Rajnandgaon.
Earlier, the Vice President also witnessed a spectacular air show by the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) renowned Suryakiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) in Nava Raipur. This show was part of the Chhattisgarh Rajat Mahotsav celebrations, marking the 25th anniversary of the state’s formation. This breathtaking display of skill and precision created an atmosphere of patriotism and captivated the audience.
