In a virtual engagement on December 27, Prime Minister Narendra Modi connected with beneficiaries of the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra, addressing a diverse audience from across the country. The event was attended by Union Ministers, MPs, MLAs, and local representatives.
Among the success stories shared was that of Rubina Khan from Dewas, Madhya Pradesh, a member of a Self-Help Group (SHG) consisting of 1.3 lakh women. Khan’s remarkable journey unfolded from being a laborer to a small business owner, venturing into selling clothes with the aid of a loan from her SHG. Khan’s journey progressed from a buying a second-hand Maruti Van to owning a shop in Dewas, where she secured state orders for her merchandise. In a light-hearted moment, Prime Minister Modi remarked, “Mere pass to cycle bhi nahi hai” (I don’t even have a bicycle).
Throughout the pandemic, Khan and her group played a pivotal role by manufacturing masks, PPE kits, and sanitizers. Serving as a Cluster Resource Person (CRP), she became a source of inspiration for women in 40 villages, encouraging them to embrace entrepreneurship.
PM Modi expressed his commitment to making around 2 crore women from SHGs ‘Lakhpati’ and applauded Khan’s dedication to this objective. The women participating in the event enthusiastically raised their hands in support.
Emphasizing the confidence of women in SHGs, PM Modi said, “The confidence of our mothers and sisters will make our nation self-reliant.” He praised Khan’s journey, highlighting that SHGs are emerging as a pathway to self-reliance for women. The Prime Minister conveyed his determination to diligently work towards making at least 2 crore Didis Lakhpati.
Encouraging Khan to prioritize education for her children, PM Modi acknowledged the prosperity that her entire village has achieved through such initiatives.