VP Radhakrishnan Lauds SHGs, Lakhpati Didis in Tripura
- By Thetripurapost Desk, Agartala
- Mar 08, 2026
- 1355
C. P. Radhakrishnan on Sunday commended the pivotal role played by Women’s Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in fostering grassroots development and strengthening women’s economic empowerment during an interaction with SHG members at the International Trade & Fair Centre on the occasion of International Women's Day.
Addressing a gathering of SHG members and beneficiaries popularly known as “Lakhpati Didis,” the Vice-President remarked that India has undergone a remarkable socio-economic transformation over the past decade under the leadership of Narendra Modi. He said the country has transitioned from a framework centred merely on women’s development to a broader vision of women-led development, where women are emerging as key drivers of economic and social progress.
Radhakrishnan observed that Self-Help Groups have evolved into a powerful mechanism of empowerment, enabling women to attain financial independence, build leadership capabilities, and participate actively in nation-building.
Referring to the ‘Lakhpati Didi’ initiative, he stated that nearly 10 crore women across the country are now associated with SHGs, while more than two crore women have already attained the status of ‘Lakhpati Didis’—a term used for SHG members whose annual household income exceeds ₹1 lakh.
Praising the initiatives undertaken by the Government of Tripura, the Vice-President noted that the state has set an ambitious target of creating 1.35 lakh ‘Lakhpati Didis’, underscoring the rapid strides being made in advancing women’s economic participation.
He further highlighted several transformative initiatives designed to improve the quality of life for women, including the ‘Namo Drone Didi’ scheme and the prioritisation of women beneficiaries under flagship welfare programmes such as Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, Jal Jeevan Mission and Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana.
Expressing confidence in the growing entrepreneurial spirit among women, Radhakrishnan said that many ‘Lakhpati Didis’ are poised to become ‘Crorepati Didis’ in the coming years, further reinforcing India’s economic resilience.
During the visit, the Vice-President also toured stalls set up by Self-Help Groups at the International Trade & Fair Centre, where women entrepreneurs from various districts showcased locally produced goods and handicrafts.
The programme was attended by Indrasena Reddy Nallu, Manik Saha, several members of the Legislative Assembly, senior officials of the state administration and representatives of numerous Women’s Self-Help Groups.
Earlier in the day, Radhakrishnan addressed the 14th convocation ceremony of Tripura University.
He also visited the revered Tripura Sundari Temple, one of the 51 sacred Shakti Peethas, where he offered prayers.
Later, the Vice-President paid homage to Albert Ekka at the Albert Ekka War Memorial, honouring the courage and supreme sacrifice of the decorated soldier who displayed extraordinary valour during the Battle of Gangasagar in the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971. He said the gallant soldier’s bravery continues to inspire generations and embodies the indomitable spirit of the Indian Armed Forces.