Union Budget 2026-27 is a pragmatic statement of intent by the Modi government that its key focus is on aspirational Bharat.

Women and youth form the two core pillars of this key constituency that the Narendra Modi-led central government has been able to build for itself over the years.

In 2023, the Centre had launched the ‘Lakhpati Didi’ scheme, which was expanded in 2024. A lakhpati didi is a self-help group (SHG) member with an annual household income exceeding Rs 1,00,000.

Beyond financial success, they inspire through adopting sustainable livelihood practices and achieving a decent standard of life. These SHGs support this journey with collective action, financial literacy, and skill development, empowering members for entrepreneurial ventures. The government actively backs this initiative, promoting diversified livelihood activities and fostering collaboration across sectors for strategic planning and implementation.

According to the latest data available on September 30, 2025, the number of lakhpati didis stood at 2,91,04,229, covering 755 districts, 7,183 blocks, 2,56,063 panchayats, and 5,92,573 villages. The scheme has apparently paid rich political dividends to the ruling BJP, as it is in the process of creating a distinct constituency of its women supporters.

Buoyed by the success of this programme, this year’s budget has proposed the concept of self-help entrepreneur (SHE) marts. They will be set up as community-owned retail outlets within the cluster-level........

© News18