NEW DELHI: Droupadi Murmu on Monday launched four major initiatives of the Delhi government aimed at women’s empowerment—Delhi Lakhpati Bitiya Yojana, a free LPG cylinder scheme for Holi and Diwali, the Saheli Pink Smart Card, and the transfer of over `100 crore through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to 40,642 girl beneficiaries under the Ladli scheme.
Addressing the gathering, the President described the theme “Sashakt Naari, Samriddh Delhi” as timely and meaningful. She said initiatives such as “Meri Punji, Mera Adhikar”, the Saheli Smart Card and Delhi Lakhpati Bitiya Yojana were important steps toward making women self-reliant. Expressing confidence in the schemes, she said they would bring positive change in the lives of women and contribute to building a prosperous city.
Highlighting India’s cultural tradition of revering women as symbols of strength, knowledge and prosperity, she recalled the contributions of Lokmata Ahilyabai Holkar, Rani Lakshmibai, Savitribai Phule, Rani Gaidinliu and Sarojini Naidu.
“Women today are achieving remarkable success in fields ranging from the armed forces and science to sports, politics, administration and business. At the same time, they continue to face challenges such as violence, economic inequality, social neglect and health concerns that must be addressed. True empowerment is possible when women can make independent decisions, live with dignity and self-respect, and enjoy equal rights, security and access to education,” she said.
Rekha Gupta said the occasion marked not just the launch of schemes but a strong commitment to dignity, self-reliance and confidence for women. “When a daughter is empowered, families become stronger. When women become self-reliant, society becomes more confident. And when women progress, the path toward a developed Delhi becomes clearer. This day will be remembered as a historic milestone in Delhi’s journey,” she said.
Explaining the Delhi Lakhpati Bitiya Yojana, the CM said `61,000 would be deposited in stages from birth until graduation, maturing to around `1.25 lakh with interest.
Calling the Saheli Pink Smart Card a “dignity card”, she said it aligns with the Prime Minister’s One Nation–One Card vision and will be valid across public transport systems. She also announced that free LPG cylinders on Holi and Diwali would be provided to eligible ration card holders, with around `130 crore already transferred to beneficiaries’ accounts.
Gender focus
1Meri Punji, Mera Adhikar: `100.25 crore has been transferred via DBT to 40,642 girls under the Ladli Scheme, with funds credited directly into their bank accounts.
2Delhi Lakhpati Bitiya Yojana: `61,000 deposited in stages, expected to grow to over `1 lakh by age 21, subject to conditions such as completion of graduation or vocational training.
3Saheli Pink Mobility Card: Enables free travel for women in DTC buses, with plans for integration across Metro and RRTS networks.
4Free LPG Cylinder Scheme: Free LPG cylinders on Holi and Diwali for ration card holders, with benefits transferred directly through DBT.