PRESIDENT OF INDIA GRACES THE NATIONAL SARAS MELA IN VIJAYAWADA

The President of India graced the National SARAS Mela in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, organized by the Union Ministry of Rural Development and the Government of Andhra Pradesh. During the event, the President interacted with Lakhpati Didis and highlighted the significant role of women's Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in rural empowerment, agricultural contribution, financial inclusion, and inclusive rural development. Over the past 12 years, the number of women associated with SHGs has grown to over 10 crore across more than 90 lakh groups. The President noted that initiatives like 'Lakhpati Didi' and the National Rural Livelihoods Mission are helping transform rural women from mere scheme beneficiaries into wealth creators and drivers of development.