Empowered Women, Stronger Villages: Manju’s Journey Highlights Rural Transformation

*Lakhpati Didi Manju’s journey of struggle emerges as an inspiring example of self-reliance* *Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai tastes Gupchup at Manju’s stall in Lemru, learns her success story through a heartfelt interaction* *Lakhpati Didi Yojana gives new wings; small business boosts confidence and livelihood* Raipur, May 16, 2026/ An inspiring story of warmth and self-reliance came to fore during Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai’s visit to Korba’s Lemru village. Here he visited a small stall operated by Lakhpati Didi Smt. Manju and relished the spicy Gupchup prepared by her and interacted with her warmly. Beneficiary Manju is associated with the Rural Livelihood Mission has emerged as an example of women’s empowerment and self-reliance through her small business venture. During the interaction, Smt. Manju informed the Chief Minister that she had started her business on a very small scale. With the savings earned from her Gupchup stall and through continuous hard work, she has now expanded into the business of “centering plates” used in construction works. Despite limited resources, she has set an inspiring example of self-reliance through her determination, hard work, and self-confidence. Appreciating the efforts of Manju Bahen, Chief Minister Shri Sai said that the State Government is committed to economically empowering rural women and making them self-reliant. He stated that the Lakhpati Didi Yojana is today emerging as a strong foundation for women’s confidence, dignity, and financial empowerment. On this occasion, Chief Minister Shri Sai also handed over an incentive cheque of Rs 30,000 to Smt. Manju under the Lakhpati Didi Yojana. The Chief Minister said that when hard work gets opportunity and courage receives support, the impact of change does not remain limited to one individual’s life alone, but brings positive transformation across the entire village and society.