Support from Self-Help Group Brings Self-Reliance Through Self-Employment: Uma Becomes ‘Lakhpati Didi’

Farming, Fish Farming, and Small Business Help Her Achieve Financial Independence

Raipur, May 2026 : Farming, fish farming, and small businesses are enabling rural women in India, especially in Chhattisgarh and other states, to reach new heights of self-employment and success. With proper guidance, training, and support from government schemes, women and youth in this sector are becoming financially stronger and also serving as inspiration for others.

Under the direction of Collector Chandhan Sanjay Tripathi and guidance of District Panchayat CEO Nayantara Singh Tomar, continuous efforts are being made in the district to make women economically self-reliant under the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM). Through self-help groups, rural women are being connected with livelihood opportunities and empowered towards financial independence.

Uma Singh becomes inspiration for rural women

Uma Singh, a resident of Maharajganj village under Balrampur Janpad Panchayat and a member of the Gulab Women Self-Help Group, has emerged as a role model for rural women. After joining the group, Uma received a total loan of ₹85,000 through revolving fund, community investment fund, and bank linkage. She used this amount to develop farming, fisheries, and small business activities.

Recognised as ‘Lakhpati Didi’

Uma cultivated paddy on 2.5 acres of land and maize on 1.5 acres. She also started fish farming by stocking fish seeds in her pond. Along with agricultural work, she runs a chickpea and chaat stall every evening at Maharajganj Chowk, which provides her with regular additional income.

This year, she earned ₹1,42,000 from paddy sales, ₹16,000 from maize, and ₹20,000 from fish farming. Through multiple livelihood activities, she has now gained recognition in her village as a “Lakhpati Didi.”

Inspired by Uma Singh’s success, other women in nearby villages are also coming forward to join self-help groups and adopt improved farming practices, animal husbandry, fish farming, and micro-enterprises. This initiative is helping rural women become self-reliant while also playing a significant role in strengthening the rural economy.