New Delhi [India], July 26 (ANI): Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Saturday announced the launch of the ‘Bima Sakhi Yojana,’ describing it as a historic step under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi toward women’s empowerment and the economic upliftment of rural and semi-urban India.
“This scheme is not only a major step towards women’s empowerment but also towards providing economic security to rural and semi-urban India. The central government is committed to making every woman in the country self-reliant and economically strong,” Chouhan stated.
According to a release from the Ministry of Rural Development, the ministry has entered into a significant partnership with the Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) as part of the Government of India’s mission of ‘Insurance for All by 2047.’ Under the financial inclusion initiative of the National Rural Livelihoods Mission, trained women from Self-Help Groups (SHGs) across India will be appointed as ‘Bima Sakhis’ at the Gram Panchayat level.
Calling the scheme a strong platform for women’s entrepreneurship and financial independence, the minister said, “It reflects our commitment to realizing the vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ set forth by Prime Minister Modi.”
Chouhan emphasized that the program aims to economically empower rural women by enabling them to take up roles as ‘Bima Sakhis.’ These positions not only offer entrepreneurial opportunities but also contribute toward Sustainable Development Goal 5 (Gender Equality) and support the ‘Lakhpati Didi Mission.’ He noted that by August 15, the number of ‘Lakhpati Didis’—women earning over ₹1 lakh annually—would reach 2 crore (20 million) nationwide.
He further stated that the scheme is opening new avenues for employment in both rural and urban areas, promoting local employment and enhancing women’s workforce participation. Within this inclusive insurance ecosystem, Bima Sakhis will expand access to insurance services while delivering trust-based support to the last mile.
The initiative also aligns with the government’s key programs such as Jan Dhan Se Jan Suraksha, Digital India, and skill development for women. It will act as a financial shield for rural families, especially in disaster-affected areas.
“Bima Sakhis are not just insurance agents but pioneers of social change. They are carrying the torch of financial security to every village, as a result of which villages are becoming economically stronger and women more self-reliant,” Chouhan remarked.
He concluded by urging all states and partner organizations to join this people-centric movement and help take the ‘Bima Sakhi Yojana’ to every village and household. “This is a transformational movement. With its support, we will make a strong contribution toward building a resilient, inclusive, and insured India. This initiative will give new momentum to the economic security and holistic development of our rural mothers and sisters,” the Union Minister added. (ANI)
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