In a significant move to boost women's economic empowerment, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has announced the establishment of community-owned SHE Marts specifically designed for women entrepreneurs from self-help groups (SHGs). This initiative was unveiled during the presentation of the Union Budget 2026, marking a strategic expansion of government support for female-led enterprises across India.
Building on Lakhpati Didi Success
Finance Minister Sitharaman emphasized that this new scheme builds directly on the remarkable achievements of the Lakhpati Didi programme. She stated, 'Building on the success of the Lakhpati Didi programme, I propose to help women take the next step from credit-linked livelihood to being owners of enterprises.' This progression represents a crucial evolution in women's economic participation, moving beyond mere employment to genuine entrepreneurship and ownership.
What Are SHE Marts?
SHE Marts will function as community-owned retail outlets managed and operated exclusively by women entrepreneurs from self-help groups. These establishments are envisioned as comprehensive platforms where SHG members can showcase, market, and sell their products directly to consumers. The community ownership model ensures that profits and decision-making authority remain within the women's collectives, fostering sustainable economic independence.
Strategic Importance for Women's Empowerment
The introduction of SHE Marts addresses several critical barriers faced by women entrepreneurs in India:
- Market Access: Providing dedicated retail spaces eliminates distribution challenges and connects producers directly with customers
- Financial Inclusion: Building upon existing credit-linked livelihood programs to create asset ownership opportunities
- Skill Development: Offering practical business management experience in retail operations and enterprise ownership
- Community Building: Strengthening the collective bargaining power of women's self-help groups through shared infrastructure
Budgetary Commitment to Gender-Inclusive Growth
This announcement reflects the government's continued commitment to gender-inclusive economic policies within the Union Budget framework. By specifically targeting women SHG entrepreneurs, the initiative recognizes the transformative potential of women-led enterprises in driving local economic development and creating sustainable livelihoods.
The SHE Marts initiative is expected to create numerous opportunities for women across rural and urban India, particularly those who have already benefited from microfinance and skill development programs. As these community-owned enterprises take shape, they promise to redefine women's economic participation in India's growing market economy.
