On Sunday ie 25 August 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced measures to enhance laws providing stringent punishments for crimes against women, speaking at a Lakhpati Didi rally in Jalgaon, Maharashtra. Modi emphasized the government’s achievements in supporting women over the past decade, claiming that his administration has surpassed all previous regimes in aiding women.
Key Points:
- Legislative Strengthening: Modi underscored the government’s efforts to introduce tougher laws against crimes targeting women, reflecting a commitment to improving women’s safety and justice.
- Financial Support: He highlighted a significant increase in financial assistance for women self-help groups. While less than Rs 25,000 crore in loans were given to these groups before 2014, the current administration has provided Rs 9 lakh crore in the past 10 years.
- Lakhpati Didi Scheme: Modi released a Rs 2,500 crore revolving fund intended for 48 lakh members of 4.3 lakh self-help groups. This initiative aims to boost women’s income and empower future generations.
- Economic Impact: Modi emphasized the role of women in India’s rise as a major global economy. He stressed that supporting women is crucial for ensuring their contribution to national prosperity.
- Achievements and Promises: Modi claimed the creation of one crore Lakhpati Didis, with an additional 11 lakh added recently. The scheme targets women whose annual income exceeds one lakh rupees.
- State and National Growth: He argued that Maharashtra’s future depends on continued BJP-led Mahayuti government, which he believes will ensure the state’s stability and prosperity through increased investment and job growth.
- Empathy and International Relations: Modi expressed sorrow over a bus accident in Nepal that claimed 14 lives from Jalgaon, mentioning that Minister Raksha Khadse was sent to Nepal. He also recalled India’s historical support for Polish refugees during World War II, reflecting on the respect India garners internationally.
Modi’s address at the rally highlighted his government’s commitment to improving women’s status and safety, while also reinforcing the broader economic and political goals for Maharashtra and India.