Context:
Union Minister for Rural Development and Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, formally launched the ‘Bima Sakhi Yojana’, a flagship scheme focused on financial empowerment and social inclusion of rural women through insurance facilitation. This scheme is aligned with the ‘Insurance for All by 2047’ mission and supports broader government initiatives such as Aatmanirbhar Bharat, Digital India, and Jan Suraksha.
Key Highlights:
Purpose and Vision:
- To empower women economically by appointing them as ‘Bima Sakhis’ at the Gram Panchayat level.
- To provide last-mile access to life and accident insurance services, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas.
- To advance SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and the Lakhpati Didi mission.
Partnership with LIC:
- The scheme is implemented in collaboration with Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC).
- LIC will support training and operational deployment of Self-Help Group (SHG) women as Bima Sakhis.
Role of Bima Sakhis:
- Act as insurance facilitators, not just agents.
- Spread awareness, assist in policy enrolment, premium collection, and claim processing.
- Serve as trust-based financial agents for the rural population.
Scale and Impact Goals:
- Over 2 crore Lakhpati Didis expected by August 15, 2025.
- Bima Sakhis to cover every village and household, ensuring widespread financial security.
Employment and Social Change:
- Catalyzes local-level employment and increases female workforce participation.
- Promotes women’s entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and disaster risk protection.
Alignment with Government Missions:
- Complements Jan-Dhan Se Jan Suraksha, Digital India, SHG-based skill development, and disaster resilience efforts.
- Contributes to the goal of building a resilient, insured, and inclusive India.
PIB
