In Chhattisgarh, efforts to promote women’s empowerment and self-reliance under the leadership of Vishnudev Sai are now yielding fruitful results. An inspiring example is Mrs. Hameshwari Rathore of Lalpur Gram Panchayat, Gaurela Development Block, who has today earned the title of “Lakhpati Didi.”
Her journey from an ordinary rural woman to a self-reliant entrepreneur is an example of struggle, courage, and success. Hameshwari Rathore joined the “Riddhi-Siddhi Self-Help Group,” where she received financial support and training under the Chhattisgarh State Rural Livelihood Mission. Through the group, she received a loan of ₹550,000, which transformed her life.
She used this money to develop agriculture and small businesses. With vegetable production as her primary source of income, she began cultivating crops such as tomatoes, cabbage, ginger, barbatti, and turmeric. Additionally, she began working on centering plates, which provided an additional source of income.
Initially, she faced challenges like weather uncertainty, market challenges, and cost. However, the guidance she received from the Vishnudev Sai government’s schemes and the support of self-help groups inspired her to continue moving forward. Through her hard work and determination, she overcame every obstacle.
Today, Hameshwari Rathore’s annual income has reached approximately 1.5 to 2 lakh rupees, making her a “Lakhpati Didi.” Her success has not only strengthened her family’s financial situation but has also become an inspiration for other women in the area.
Hameshwari Rathore’s achievement demonstrates that the Vishnudev Sai government’s women-centric schemes and its strong network of self-help groups are bringing positive change to the lives of rural women by empowering them to become self-reliant.