By Chandan Singh | Page 3 News Worldwide | New Delhi
New Delhi: In a major push for women entrepreneurship, Rekha Gupta on Saturday announced that the Delhi Government will provide collateral-free loans of up to ₹10 crore to women-led self-help groups (SHGs) and startups, with the government itself acting as guarantor.
Addressing the inauguration of the two-day ‘Mega SHG Mela-2026’ near Rohini West Metro Station, the Chief Minister said the initiative aims to make every woman in the capital self-reliant and economically empowered. She also announced that indigenous products made by women would be given regular platforms in malls and major shopping complexes across Delhi to help them reach bigger markets.
The mela, organised by the North-West District Administration, showcased handicrafts, khadi, crochet work, food products and household items prepared by around 24 women self-help groups under the ‘One District, One Product’ initiative.
Invoking Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Vocal for Local’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’, Gupta said Indian handmade and local products are “second to none” in quality and only require better branding and marketing.
She urged citizens to prefer indigenous products over foreign brands and highlighted that India is rapidly becoming self-reliant across sectors including defence, agriculture, manufacturing and space.
The Chief Minister also said the Delhi Government is working with banks to improve financial access for women entrepreneurs and SHGs. Banking institutions participated in the mela to facilitate easier credit support.
Calling for lifestyle changes to strengthen the economy, Gupta said the government is also promoting campaigns such as ‘Monday Metro’ and ‘No Vehicle Day’ in line with fuel-saving and sustainable transport initiatives.
