In a significant step towards promoting women’s entrepreneurship, the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has announced an ambitious initiative to establish 7,000 women-led enterprises under the Indira Mahila Shakthi Scheme. The move aims to foster financial independence and socio-economic empowerment for women across Hyderabad. This initiative, backed by a Rs 410 crore budget, envisions setting up 6,000 individual enterprises and 1,000 group enterprises, marking a transformative leap for women entrepreneurs in the city.
The GHMC, led by Commissioner Ilambarithi, is expediting the identification of eligible beneficiaries, with a target to prioritise loan disbursements under the scheme by January 20. A key component of the plan is to integrate eligible women into self-help groups, which will serve as a platform for collective enterprise and mutual support. Additionally, the scheme will facilitate access to micro credit through bank linkages, with the aim to mobilise Rs 1,500 crore by March 2025.
This forward-thinking scheme is set to be complemented by a micro credit plan worth Rs 500 crore, which will be finalised by the end of December. The loan grounding process is expected to conclude by January, setting the stage for women to receive the much-needed financial backing to kickstart their entrepreneurial journeys. This will not only help women become self-reliant but also contribute to the city’s broader economic growth by encouraging small-scale businesses.
From a sustainability perspective, the GHMC’s focus on women-led enterprises aligns with the broader goals of fostering inclusive economic growth. Women entrepreneurs are often key drivers of sustainability, as they contribute to local economies, promote community welfare, and create jobs within their immediate neighbourhoods. Additionally, the financial inclusion of women plays a crucial role in sustainable urban development, helping build resilient communities and ensuring long-term prosperity for all. This scheme not only empowers women but also supports Hyderabad’s vision of a more equitable and sustainable future.
