Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the ‘Sashakt Nari - Viksit Bharat’ programme on Monday and witnessed agricultural drone demonstrations conducted by Namo Drone 'Didis' at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi.

The PM disbursed around ₹8,000 crore in bank loans to self-help groups (SHGs) at subsidised interest rate through 'Bank Linkage Camps' set up by banks in each district and about ₹2,000 crore in capitalisation support funds to SHGs, as per PMO’s statement.

Drone demonstrations were simultaneously carried out by 'Namo Drone Didis' from 10 different locations nationwide.

During the programme, the PM handed over drones to 1,000 'Namo Drone Didis'. The initiatives of 'Namo Drone Didi' and 'Lakhpati Didi' are part of the government's plan to foster economic empowerment and financial autonomy among women, especially in rural areas.

While speaking at the programme, the PM revealed that 1 crore women had become 'Lakhpati Didi' as of now.

He acknowledged the transformative influence of drone technology in agriculture, being steered by women of the nation. While highlighting the growth of women's participation in SHGs, the PM states, "Today, the number of women in self-help groups has surpassed 10 crores."

"Over the past ten years, our government has not only expanded self-help groups but also facilitated the opening of bank accounts for 98% of these groups," he adds.

The assistance to such groups has been increased to ₹20 lakh, and more than ₹8 lakh crore have been deposited into the accounts of such groups. The PM mentioned that due to the push for modern infrastructure, the income of these Self Help Groups has tripled, the statement adds.

The PM also acknowledged the role and services of 'Bank Sakhi', 'Krishi Sakhi', 'Pashu Sakhi', and 'Matasya Sakhi', stating, "These 'didis' are giving new impetus to the country's national campaigns, from health to Digital India. More than 50% of those running the Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan are women, and more than 50% of the beneficiaries are also women. This series of successes only strengthens my faith in 'Nari Shakti.'"

The PM asked the SHGs to come forward in implementation of 'PM Suryaghar Muft Bijli Yojana'. He said wherever members of SHG take initiative, they will be given priority in the scheme.

The PM will felicitate 'Lakhpati Didis' who achieved success with the support of 'Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana'—National Rural Livelihoods mission and are supporting and motivating other SHG members for their upliftment.