Jashpur (Chhattisgarh) [India], November 23 (HBTV): The Chhattisgarh government has launched the 'Bijli Sakhi Yojana' in the tribal-dominated Jashpur district to economically empower women and aid the electricity department in conducting meter readings in remote villages.

This pilot project, introduced by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, enlists 21 women from a self-help group with the goal of transforming them into 'Lakhpati Didis.' These women have been tasked with meter reading in villages where the electricity department previously faced challenges in reaching.

According to an official, the initiative has facilitated the electricity department’s operations while providing these women with an income of INR 4,000-6,000 per month. This scheme aligns with the vision of empowering women economically, potentially allowing them to earn over INR 1 lakh annually.

In October, the electricity department identified village panchayats with no meter readings. The Power Distribution Company and district administration selected 21 literate and active women from self-help groups in these areas. These women were trained and designated as 'Bijli Sakhis,' and the scheme was launched as a pilot in Jashpur's Bagicha development block.

Tarun Singh, the scheme's nodal officer, highlighted that 'Bijli Sakhis' earn INR 12 for each meter reading, contributing to their monthly additional income. Many women involved perform meter reading duties for 5-7 days a month, boosting their annual earnings by INR 50,000-60,000.

Women participating in the program expressed their gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, and the district administration for initiating this program, which has provided them with economic independence and additional income opportunities.

(ANI)