Odisha has taken the lead nationally in the Central government’s Lakhpati Didi initiative, a programme aimed at helping rural women earn ₹1 lakh or more annually through sustainable livelihoods. As of April 13, 2025, the state has successfully supported the creation of 14.41 lakh Lakhpati Didis, achieving 82% of its identified goal of 17.59 lakh beneficiaries — the highest progress among all Indian states, according to an official state press release.
The programme in Odisha is spearheaded by the Odisha Livelihoods Mission (OLM) under the Department of Mission Shakti, in line with the objectives of the National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM). The state adopted a mission-mode approach, combining decentralised planning, grassroots leadership, and targeted livelihood support.
Through a door-to-door identification drive, officials, SHG leaders, and Community Support Staff surveyed households to identify Potential Lakhpati Didis (PLDs), mapping their income, skills, and aspirations. These women were then mentored and trained to develop sustainable income sources.
Each PLD received a customized Business Development Plan (BDP), focusing on scaling or diversifying their livelihoods based on local conditions and individual capabilities. Practical training was conducted across rural Odisha, with master trainers offering hands-on guidance in areas like tailoring, mushroom cultivation, food processing, and livestock management.
To further empower women-led Self Help Groups (SHGs), the Revolving Fund was increased from ₹15,000 to ₹30,000. The Community Investment Fund (CIF) also saw a major hike, rising from ₹35 lakh to ₹60 lakh.
