Assam to Begin Disbursing Seed Capital to Women Entrepreneurs Starting Today
Why in News?
- Assam government’s significant step towards empowering women entrepreneurs. Starting today, the state will begin disbursing seed capital to women as part of the Mukhya Mantri Mahila Udyamita Abhiyaan (MMUA). This initiative is a key part of the government’s broader efforts to foster women’s economic independence and promote entrepreneurship.
Important Key Points:
-
-
Seed Capital Distribution: The program will commence with the distribution of ₹10,000 each to women members of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in rural areas. A total of 30 lakh rural women and 2 lakh urban women are targeted for this initiative.
-
Financial Incentives: Following the seed capital disbursement, beneficiaries can access a ₹25,000 bank loan, with a government subsidy of ₹12,500 upon prudent utilization and timely repayment. This brings the total financial support per beneficiary to approximately ₹47,500.
-
Implementation Timeline: The ceremonial distribution of seed capital begins today, April 1, 2025, starting from the Behali Legislative Assembly Constituency. Subsequent distributions will occur in phases across other constituencies.
Government Allocations and Objectives:
-
Budgetary Provisions: In the 2025-26 budget, the Assam government allocated ₹3,038 crore to MMUA, underscoring a strong commitment to women’s entrepreneurship.
-
Long-Term Goals: The initiative aims to transform at least 30 lakh women into “Lakhpati Didis,” each earning a minimum of ₹1 lakh annually, thereby significantly boosting their economic status and contributing to the state’s GDP.
Additional Initiatives for Women Empowerment:
-
Orunodoi 3.0 Scheme: Expanded to benefit 37.2 lakh women, providing direct financial assistance of ₹1,250 per month to support household expenses, healthcare, and education.
-
Mukhya Mantrir Nijut Moina: Offers financial assistance to 4.3 lakh girl students pursuing higher education, with ₹1,000 per month for Class 11 students and ₹2,500 for postgraduates and B.Ed students.
-
Chief Minister’s Jibon Prerana: Provides a stipend of ₹2,500 per month for up to one year to graduates from government institutions entering the workforce or starting their own businesses.
-
