Union Minister for Agriculture, Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, today stated that loans worth over ₹11 lakh crore have been disbursed to women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) through formal financial institutions under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM). This milestone reflects the central government’s strong commitment under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi towards inclusive rural development, financial empowerment of women, and fostering self-reliance at the village level.

The Union Minister explained that under the Ministry of Rural Development’s DAY-NRLM, rural poor women across the country are strengthening their livelihoods through robust community institutions. Through SHGs, they are being provided collateral-free loans, interest subsidies, and other financial support, enabling them to start their own businesses and increase their incomes. A repayment rate of over 98% clearly demonstrates the initiative’s credibility, discipline, and efficient management.

Appreciating the banking community’s support in this regard, Shri Shivraj Singh said that banking partners have played a remarkable role in turning the dreams of millions of rural women into reality. The tireless efforts of ‘Bank Sakhis’ have facilitated SHG-bank linkage and ensured timely loan repayment.

He further said that the main contribution of this banking partnership is the provision of easy loans to SHGs under the priority sector lending, along with accessible banking services for SHG members through simplified processes. The initiative also promotes Aadhaar and mobile seeding of bank accounts and enhances financial literacy.

The Minister added that repayment systems are being strengthened in the country. ‘Bank Sakhis’ are increasingly assisting with transactions, loan applications, and documentations, as well as creating awareness about insurance, pensions, and other financial schemes. Moreover, the Community Based Repayment Mechanism (CBRM) is being fortified to ensure timely loan recovery under this significant programme.

Shri Shivraj Singh concluded by saying that central government initiatives like DAY-NRLM and ‘Lakhpati Didi’ are transforming the economic status of millions of women in rural India. This achievement is not merely a statistic but a symbol of collective strength, where women, when given opportunities, trust, and resources, can lead the country to new heights of self-reliance.

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RC/ KSR/AR