Shillong, July 12: Union Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday visited Laitkynsew village in East Khasi Hills district, where she interacted with members of Self Help Groups (SHGs), Lakhpati Didis and Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), applauding their contributions to rural transformation.

Accompanied by Meghalaya’s Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh, Sitharaman expressed appreciation for the Meghalaya government’s effective implementation of Central and State welfare schemes. She underscored the importance of grassroots empowerment and inclusive development in realising Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India) by 2047.

“True development must touch every section of society—urban and rural, men and women, the young and the elderly. That is the essence of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas,” the Union Minister said.

Highlighting progress in the state’s health indicators, Sitharaman noted the decline in maternal mortality as a sign of tangible improvement on the ground. She credited women-led SHGs for playing a pivotal role in driving socio-economic change, adding that initiatives like the Lakhpati Didi programme—aimed at ensuring at least five women in every village earn ₹1 lakh annually—have empowered women across India to aspire for financial independence.

She reiterated the Centre’s support for Meghalaya’s target of building a $30 billion economy by 2030, calling it an ambitious yet achievable goal that aligns with India’s broader developmental roadmap. “If every village contributes, Meghalaya can become a model for the rest of the country,” she said.

Sitharaman also noted the Centre’s continuous focus on the Northeast, highlighting that Union Ministers regularly visit the region to ensure effective implementation and oversight of developmental initiatives.

During the interaction, an inspiring grassroots success story was shared by Lahun Mary Blah of the Ieng Rasong SHG. Starting with a ₹4,000 loan to sell clothes, Blah steadily expanded her enterprise, later availing a ₹10,000 Cash Credit loan to open a shop and a ₹1 lakh Community Investment Fund (CIF) loan to launch a tea stall and flower boutique. Her income has grown from ₹20,000 to ₹3.4 lakh annually, and her journey has generated local employment while also boosting her confidence and leadership.

Sitharaman lauded such stories as powerful examples of how financial inclusion and community-driven entrepreneurship can transform lives.

“I am leaving Meghalaya with a deep sense of admiration for the work being done at the grassroots. These efforts exemplify the spirit of partnership between the Centre and State in building a stronger, self-reliant India,” she concluded.

Also Read: Sitharaman urges youths of NE to take advantage of PM Internship Scheme

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