States » EastPosted at: Oct 27 2026 4:44PM


Manipur CM targets creating one lakh Lakhpati Didis by 2029

Imphal, Oct 27 (UNI) Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Tuesday inaugurated the 18th Saras Aajeevika Mela 2026 in Imphal, emphasising the crucial role of banks in empowering women entrepreneurs and strengthening rural livelihoods.
The mela, at the City Convention Centre, has been organised to promote products made by women-led Self-Help Groups (SHGs). It will continue until November 6, providing a platform for rural entrepreneurs to showcase their products, expand market access and explore new business opportunities.
Addressing the inaugural gathering, the Chief Minister highlighted Manipur's comparatively low SHG loan default rate, stating that while the national average stands at around 5 per cent, the rate in Manipur is only 2 per cent.
He said the figure reflected the state's performance in loan repayment and stressed that greater cooperation from banks would be essential to expand women's entrepreneurship and economic independence.
Khemchand Singh stated that Manipur currently has around 26,000 Lakhpati Didis, with the government aiming to increase the number to one lakh by 2029. He emphasised that achieving the target would require sustained institutional support and access to financial services.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the historical and economic contributions of women in Manipur, recalling their role in the Nupi Lal (women's war) movements against British colonial rule and their continued participation in the state's socio-economic development.
Referring to Ima (women) Market, which is run exclusively by women, he said the market exemplified women's contribution to the economy through the sale of a wide range of essential commodities and other products.
He also commended the staff of the Manipur State Rural Livelihoods Mission (MSRLM) for their dedication in implementing livelihood initiatives.
Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen, who attended the programme through video conferencing, described the Sale of Articles of Rural Artisans Society (SARAS) Mela as a flagship market-promotion initiative under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana–National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM).
She said the initiative aimed to empower rural women and promote women-led enterprises by providing SHGs with opportunities to display and sell their products, connect directly with customers and explore wider markets.
Commissioner of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Sumant Singh said research on women's participation in Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) had placed Manipur first in terms of women-owned businesses.
He expressed confidence that the mela would help increase the income of SHG members by promoting rural entrepreneurship, strengthening market linkages and encouraging product innovation.
An interactive session was also held with Lakhpati Didis, who shared their experiences and expressed appreciation for the support received from MSRLM in developing their respective businesses and sustaining their livelihoods.
Following the inaugural programme, the Chief Minister inspected the stalls set up at the venue. More than 100 stalls are showcasing products made by women belonging to Self-Help Groups.
The 11-day mela is expected to strengthen market access for rural women entrepreneurs, promote locally made products and create opportunities for sustainable income generation across Manipur.
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Tags: #Manipur CM targets creating one lakh Lakhpati Didis by 2029
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