Bhubaneswar, Aug 12: In a proud moment for Odisha, Jyoti Reddy, a successful “Lakhpati Didi” from Ganjam district, has been invited to participate in the 79th Independence Day celebrations at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi.

The invitation comes as part of a national initiative to honour women who have achieved financial independence through self-help groups (SHGs).

Jyoti Reddy, a graduate from Kaliyabali village under Sriramchandrapur Panchayat in Chhatrapur block, began her journey in 2008 by joining a women’s SHG. Initially, she earned a modest income by collecting electricity bills door-to-door. Her breakthrough came through Mission Shakti, under which she secured a ₹2 lakh loan to start a poultry farm in her village.

Today, Jyoti earns over ₹4 lakh annually and has become a beacon of empowerment for other women in her community. She has not only built a sustainable livelihood for herself but also mentored and supported other women to become financially self-reliant.

Her selection as a “Lakhpati Didi” to represent Odisha at the national event is a testament to the transformative power of grassroots entrepreneurship. The Rashtrapati Bhavan ceremony will feature women achievers from across India, showcasing the success of SHGs in uplifting rural communities.

Jyoti’s journey reflects the broader mission of Mission Shakti, which aims to empower women through financial inclusion, skill development, and entrepreneurship. Her story is a shining example of how determination and opportunity can change lives.

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