Dilip Ghosh Announces Loan Scheme to Empower 3 Lakh Women in West Bengal Kolkata: On August 5, 2026, a joint initiative between the National Commission for Women and the West Bengal government held a program titled "Sashakt Sakhī, Samriddh Bharat" (Empowered Women, Prosperous India) in Kolkata’s Dhana Dhanya Auditorium. The event, attended by nearly 500 lakhpati didis (wealthy women) and members of self-reliant groups, aimed to strengthen women’s economic independence and rural development. National Commission for Women chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar, West Bengal Panchayat and Rural Development Minister Dilip Ghosh, and Deputy Minister Santanu Pramanik were present alongside administrators, educators, and representatives from financial institutions. Ghosh announced a 40,000 crore rupee loan scheme for self-help groups (SHGs), emphasizing the need to address corruption and ensure transparency in fund distribution. He stated that the initiative seeks to create 3 lakh new lakhpati didis, highlighting the potential of women to drive societal and regional development. "Women in West Bengal are already leading in family and community management, but their role in shaping society and the state must be recognized," Ghosh said. The minister criticized the central government for delaying women-centric projects, noting that schemes like the "Bima Sakhī Didi" (Insurance Women) initiative were not implemented in the state. However, he confirmed that such programs would now be rolled out, starting with Medinipur district where he served as a legislator. Ghosh also pledged to penalize those involved in loan fraud, stating, "Anyone who misuses funds will face legal action.#west_bengal_government #national_commission_for_women #dilip_ghosh #sashakt_sakh_samriddh_bharat #vijaya_rahatkar
