To empower women and pave the path of Atmanirbharta, the Government of Assam has extended financial assistance under the Mukhyamantri Mahila Udyamita Abhiyan (MMUA). Under this ambitious initiative, over 30 lakh eligible women belonging to Self Help Groups (SHGs) across Assam have received an entrepreneurship grant of Rs 10,000 each. With a total outlay exceeding Rs 3,000 cr, this mission has instilled new confidence among women to turn their dreams into reality.
Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma participated in several programmes under this initiative held across the State during October.
Key Highlights of Beneficiaries:
Biswanath LAC: Nearly 35,000 beneficiaries
Behali LAC: 3,000 beneficiaries
Tinsukia LAC: 14,301 beneficiaries
Jonai LAC: 36,886 beneficiaries
Dibrugarh LAC: 14,025 beneficiaries
Nagaon–Batadrava LAC: 26,585 beneficiaries
Bongaigaon LAC: 20,308 SHG members
Ramkrishna Nagar LAC: 18,745 beneficiaries
Silchar LAC: 13,193 beneficiaries
Lakhimpur LAC: 19,318 beneficiaries
Stories of Success: Women Leading the Change
1. Nandarani Devi, a member of Kanthaoleima SHG in Lakhimpur, established her own beauty parlour, becoming self-reliant. She now earns around Rs 1.2 lakh annually, setting an inspiring example as an Adarsha Lakhpati Baideo (Model Entrepreneur). Similarly, Ranjita Singh, from Tamna SHG, has taken up dairy farming and is steadily building a sustainable livelihood.
2. Tapasi Devi, from Laxmi SHG in Silchar, has started a milk-based food processing unit, earning nearly Rs 15,000 per month, supporting her family while contributing to the local economy.
3. Manisha Gogoi Neog, a member of Sonali SHG under the Lahowal Development Block of Dibrugarh, now earns Rs 20,000–Rs 30,000 monthly through her enterprise. Her journey stands as a shining model for other women entrepreneurs of the region.
4. Mandira Devi Deuri, from Luhijan Majgaon SHG, has paved the way for organic farming by cultivating organic strawberries and Bhut Jolokia (King Chilli), showcasing innovation and enterprise at the grassroots.
Speaking at one of the events, Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma remarked, “Women entrepreneurs engaged in agriculture, animal husbandry, handloom and handicrafts are strengthening their livelihoods while contributing to rural economic growth. The Government stands firmly with them in their journey toward empowerment and prosperity.”
