How much has the Central Government increased the target of 'Lakhpati Didi Yojana'?

Daily Current Affairs

5 Crores

4 Crores

3 Crores

2 Crores

Correct Answer : 3 Crores

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Thursday (1st Feb 2024) announced the government’s decision to raise the target of creating ‘Lakhpati Didis’ from 2 crores to 3 crores. The Lakhpati Didi scheme focuses on providing training to women in self-help groups (SHGs), enabling them to generate a sustainable annual income of at least Rs 1 lakh.

While presenting the interim Budget, the Union minister highlighted that 83 lakh self-help groups (SHGs) comprising nine crore women are transforming the rural socio-economic landscape through empowerment and fostering self-reliance.

“Eighty-three lakh SHGs with nine crore women are transforming rural socio-economic landscape with empowerment and self-reliance. Their success has assisted nearly one crore women to become Lakhpati Didi already. They are an inspiration to others,” she said.

“Their achievements will be recognised through honouring them. Buoyed by the success, it has been decided to enhance the target for Lakhpati Didi from 2 crore to 3 crore,” Sitharaman added.

In an attempt to reach out to the economically marginalised before the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 15, 2023, announced the new initiative — Lakhpati Didi, under which skill training will be provided to two crore women so that they can earn at least Rs 1 lakh annually.

Addressing the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the 77th Independence Day, the prime minister said he has taken forward the issue of women-led development in G-20, where it has received a lot of support.

“Today 10 crore women are associated with Women Self Help Groups and if you go to a village, you will find women working with banks, you will find women working in Anganwadi, you will find women who give medicines. Now my dream is to create 2 crore Lakhpati Didis (women with annual earnings of Rs 1 lakh and more),” PM Modi had said.

Aim of the scheme :

The scheme aims to empower women in Self-Help Groups (SHGs) through a comprehensive approach. This includes fostering collective unity among women, enhancing the strength of their federations, and equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills for livelihood improvement. The scheme is committed to supporting SHG women in various aspects, such as financial assistance, credit support, and interventions aimed at enhancing their overall livelihoods.

To achieve its goals, the scheme focuses on four key components :

a) Social mobilisation and promotion, which involves strengthening self-managed and financially sustainable community institutions for rural communities.
b) Financial inclusion efforts targeted at the rural poor.
c) Sustainable livelihood initiatives for the rural population.
d) Promoting social inclusion, social development, and facilitating convergence for overall community development..

Source : Indian Express

Published On : February 2, 2024

Which State of United States is Known as “The Centennial State”?

Colorado holds the distinction of being known as “The Centennial State” among the United States. This nickname stems from its admission into the Union in 1876, precisely 100 years after the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Symbolizing both historical significance and patriotic pride, the title highlights Colorado’s role in commemorating the nation’s centennial while underscoring its rich heritage and contributions to American history.

The Origin of the Nickname “The Centennial State” :

Colorado earned the moniker “The Centennial State” due to its admission into the Union in the year 1876. This year held special significance as it marked the centennial anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, a pivotal event in American history. The timing of Colorado’s statehood celebration perfectly aligned with the nation’s centennial celebrations, hence the fitting nickname.

Published On : May 13, 2024

Q .

International Day of Plant Health 2024 Observed on?

9th May

10th May

11th May

12th May

Correct Answer : Option (D) - 12th May

The International Day of Plant Health (IDPH) is observed annually on 12 May to raise awareness about the critical importance of protecting plant health. This global initiative aims to prevent hunger, reduce poverty, safeguard biodiversity, and promote economic development worldwide. This year, the International Day of Plant Health falls on Sunday, 12 May 2024, coinciding with Mother’s Day, an event that recognizes the love, care, and sacrifices of mothers.

Theme: ‘Plant Health, Safe Trade, Digital Technology’ :

The theme for the International Day of Plant Health 2024 is ‘Plant Health, Safe Trade, Digital Technology.’ This theme emphasizes the need for international collaboration, standards, and the integration of digital technologies to promote plant health and ensure safe trade practices.

History and Significance :

The United Nations established the International Day of Plant Health to draw public attention to the necessity of safeguarding plant health. The resolution was unanimously adopted by the UN General Assembly in March 2022 and co-sponsored by several countries, including Bolivia, Finland, Pakistan, the Philippines, Tanzania, and Zambia.

The resolution highlights the crucial role of healthy plants in sustainable agricultural development, supporting a growing global population by 2050. It also acknowledges the functions of plants in regulating ecosystems, providing food security and nutrition, and promoting biodiversity.

Published On : May 13, 2024

Q .

Which Indian City is Known as 'City of Bridges'?

Mumbai

Pune

Surat

Bengaluru

Correct Answer : Option (C) - Surat

Surat earned the title "City of Bridges" due to its extensive network of over 120 bridges, surpassing any other city in India.

Which Indian City is Known as “City of Bridges”?

The Indian city known as the “City of Bridges” is Surat, located in the state of Gujarat. Surat boasts an impressive number of bridges, surpassing any other city in India. With over 120 bridges spanning rivers and connecting various parts of the city, Surat’s infrastructure facilitates smooth transportation for its residents. This abundance of bridges has earned Surat its distinctive title, highlighting its significance as a hub of connectivity and urban development.

Why is Surat Known as the “City of Bridges”?

Surat earned the title “City of Bridges” due to its extensive network of over 120 bridges, surpassing any other city in India. Situated along the banks of the Tapi River and close to other water bodies, Surat’s strategic location necessitated the construction of numerous bridges for seamless connectivity. These bridges play a vital role in facilitating smooth transportation within the city, earning Surat its reputation as a hub of connectivity and urban development.

Published On : May 13, 2024