Tripura is making significant strides in women’s economic empowerment, with 94,723 women achieving the status of ‘Lakhpati Didi’ through their participation in Self-Help Groups (SHGs), and an additional 93,425 women on the path to similar financial success, according to Social Welfare and Labour Minister Tinku Roy.
A ‘Lakhpati Didi’ refers to an SHG member whose annual household income exceeds ₹1 lakh. More than just a financial milestone, these women serve as role models by embracing sustainable livelihood practices and achieving economic self-sufficiency.
Empowering Women Through SHGs and Government Support
Tripura currently has 4,75,582 women engaged in SHGs under the Tripura Rural Livelihood Mission (TRLM) and Tripura Urban Livelihood Mission (TULM). There are 52,902 SHGs in rural areas and around 6,000 in urban zones, with 63,743 women participating in the latter.
The state government has played a crucial role in supporting these SHGs by providing:
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₹740.43 crore in financial assistance
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₹1,539 crore in loans to help women engage in various business ventures
Minister Roy emphasized that the government is actively promoting skill development, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship among SHG members. The administration is also fostering cross-sector collaboration to enhance livelihood opportunities for women.
Women’s Empowerment: A Core Focus of the State Government
The Tripura government has implemented several policies to advance women’s economic and social empowerment:
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33% reservation for women in government jobs
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Construction of 10 working women’s hostels, with ₹114 crore allocated for the project
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Increased participation of women in security forces, with 137 women recently recruited into the elite Tripura State Rifles (TSR)
Chief Minister Manik Saha highlighted that before the BJP came to power in 2018, only 4,000 SHGs were operational in the state. The expansion of SHGs has significantly improved financial inclusion and self-sufficiency among women.
Tripura’s Performance in Women’s Safety and Start-Ups
Citing National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) reports, CM Saha noted that:
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Tripura ranks 3rd best among 28 states in overall crime rates
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It stands 8th best in crime against women, reflecting an improving safety environment
Furthermore, Tripura has a high women’s participation rate (41%) in start-ups, showcasing their growing entrepreneurial spirit. Additionally, over 7 lakh women in the state have been covered under two national government-sponsored insurance schemes, ensuring their financial security.
A Model for Women’s Economic Uplift
Tripura’s success in the ‘Lakhpati Didi’ initiative underscores the effectiveness of SHGs in fostering financial independence among women. With sustained government support and expanding opportunities, thousands more women are set to achieve financial stability, reinforcing the state’s commitment to inclusive growth and gender empowerment.
