The Mukhyamantri Sashakt Behna Utsav Yojana represents a transformative initiative by the Uttarakhand Government to empower women across the state. Launched on 24th August 2023, on the auspicious occasion of Raksha Bandhan, this scheme was introduced by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami to provide women’s self-help groups (SHGs) with a platform to showcase and sell their products directly to consumers .
The scheme addresses a critical challenge faced by women entrepreneurs in Uttarakhand. Despite having over 37,000 women groups working across the state, many struggled to find the right market for their products, leading to financial difficulties and demotivation. The scheme solves this by organizing exhibitions in public places at the block level, ensuring that women’s handmade products get the visibility they deserve and find buyers .
The initiative operates under the Women Empowerment and Child Development Department, which manages and oversees its implementation across all development blocks in the state . The scheme is part of the broader vision of “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” and “Vocal for Local,” aligned with Prime Minister Modi’s initiatives to make women self-reliant and economically empowered .
Under the Mukhyamantri Udyamshala Yojana, which is closely linked with this initiative, incubation facilities will be provided to more than 15,000 entrepreneurs, self-help groups, and Lakhpati Didis over the next three years. Beneficiaries receive business skill training, legal and licensing support, co-working spaces, investment assistance, and a robust marketing network connecting local products to global markets .
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Scheme Overview and Key Statistics
The Mukhyamantri Sashakt Behna Utsav Yojana has shown remarkable success within a short time. Understanding these parameters is essential for both beneficiaries and stakeholders involved in implementation.
Scheme Overview Table:
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Mukhyamantri Sashakt Behna Utsav Yojana (MSBUY) |
| Launch Date | 24th August 2023 (Raksha Bandhan) |
| Launching Authority | Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami |
| Implementing Department | Women Empowerment & Child Development Department, Uttarakhand |
| Target Beneficiaries | Women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) |
| Total Women Beneficiaries | 40,000+ women |
| SHGs in Uttarakhand | 68,000 groups |
| Women Associated with SHGs | 5 lakh women |
| Total Stalls Set Up | Over 27,000 stalls |
| Total Sales Generated | Rs 7 crore+ |
| Lakhpati Didis in State | 1.63 lakh+ women |
Key Achievements Table:
| Achievement | Details |
|---|---|
| Block-Level Stalls (Aug 2023-Jun 2024) | 1,428 stalls across 95 blocks, generating Rs 3.18 crore |
| Overall Sales (2023-2025) | Rs 7 crore across various events |
| Stalls at Saras Aajeevika Mela | Approximately 2,000 stalls, generating Rs 5.5 crore |
| Products Available | 35 high-quality products under “House of Himalayas” brand |
| Marketing Infrastructure | 49 Growth Centers, 33 Nano Packaging Units, 17 Saras Centres, 8 Bakery Units across 13 districts |
Recent Developments:
- October 2025: CM launched 12 economic activities under the National Rural Livelihood Mission worth ₹1.20 crore during “Saras Aajeevika Mela” in Rishikesh
- August 2025: CM honoured women self-help groups doing commendable work under the scheme and launched the mascot and logo for the Mukhyamantri Udyamshala scheme
Objectives of the Scheme
The Mukhyamantri Sashakt Behna Utsav Yojana has been designed with clear, well-defined objectives that address the specific challenges faced by women in rural Uttarakhand.
Primary Objectives:
1. Market Access for Women’s Products
- Provide a wide market platform for products made by women’s groups
- Organize exhibitions of local products at block level
- Ensure products reach consumers directly, eliminating middlemen
2. Economic Empowerment
- Enable women to earn a sustainable income
- Help women achieve “Lakhpati Didi” status (earning ₹1 lakh+ annually)
- Improve the standard of living for rural families
3. Recognition and Identity
- Give products a new identity and recognition in the market
- Connect local products to consumers through branding and packaging support
- Create the “House of Himalayas” brand for global recognition
4. Self-Reliance
- Make women self-reliant and confident entrepreneurs
- Reduce dependency on traditional sources of income
- Enable women to contribute to the rural, societal, and state economy
5. Vocal for Local
- Promote local products and traditional crafts
- Preserve cultural heritage through aipan art, traditional foods, and handmade crafts
- Support sustainable livelihoods in rural areas
Broader Impact:
- Women earning ₹7,000 to ₹8,000 per month, leading to a marked improvement in their standard of living
- Products like pine needle rakhis receiving appreciation from security agencies like SSB and ITBP
- Contribution to the state’s “Aatmanirbhar” (self-reliant) vision
Eligibility Criteria for the Scheme
The Mukhyamantri Sashakt Behna Utsav Yojana is designed to be inclusive, targeting women who are already part of self-help groups or involved in entrepreneurship. The eligibility framework is straightforward and accessible.
Primary Eligibility Conditions:
| Criteria | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Target Group | Women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in Uttarakhand |
| Residency | Must be a permanent resident of Uttarakhand |
| SHG Registration | Must be a member of an active SHG registered under the Rural Livelihood Mission or related programs |
| Products | Must be manufacturing or preparing local/sustainable products |
| Age | No specific age limit for SHG members |
Beneficiary Categories:
1. Existing SHG Members
- Women who are already part of the 68,000 SHGs in Uttarakhand
- Those currently manufacturing products but lacking market access
2. Women Entrepreneurs
- Women running small businesses or cottage industries
- Women involved in food processing, handicrafts, textile, or other local products
3. Lakhpati Didis
- Women who have already achieved ₹1 lakh+ annual income
- Can participate to expand their market reach
4. Women Associated with National Rural Livelihood Mission
- Beneficiaries of NRLM are automatically eligible
- Over 5 lakh women are currently associated with NRLM in Uttarakhand
Current Beneficiary Data:
- 40,000+ women are currently benefiting directly from the scheme
- 27,000+ stalls have been set up by women groups
- Products are available through 17 Saras Centres and 3 state-level marketing centres
How the Scheme Works
The Mukhyamantri Sashakt Behna Utsav Yojana operates through a well-structured implementation framework that ensures maximum participation and benefit for women SHGs.
Implementation Structure:
1. Block-Level Exhibitions
- Every development block organizes exhibitions in public places
- Women SHGs set up stalls to display and sell their products
- Schedule: 25th to 30th of each month at block level
2. Traditional Melas (Fairs)
- Stalls are set up at traditional fairs across the state
- Popular products receive greater visibility and demand
- Traditional fairs attract large crowds, ensuring good sales
3. Strategic Locations
- Stalls at Secretariat, Dehradun (increased visibility for government officials)
- Special centres at Dehradun and Haridwar railway stations under “One Station, One Product” scheme
4. Support Infrastructure
| Infrastructure | Number | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Growth Centers | 49 | Processing and marketing of products |
| Nano Packaging Units | 33 | Product packaging and presentation |
| Saras Centres | 17 | Retail outlets for SHG products |
| State-Level Marketing Centres | 3 | Strategic marketing support |
| Bakery Units | 8 | Food product manufacturing |
Success Stories:
Laxmi Joshi, Maa Purnagiri SHG
- Pine needle (pirul) rakhis gaining appreciation from local and security agencies
- Products like mango and amla candies, spices, aipan artwork in high demand
Seema Kumari, Almora
- Earned ₹18 lakh in the past 5 years through various government schemes
- A testament to the transformative power of these initiatives
Products and Market Reach
The scheme has enabled women SHGs to manufacture and sell a diverse range of products, from traditional crafts to modern consumer goods. The product range reflects Uttarakhand’s rich cultural heritage and natural resources.
Types of Products:
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Traditional Crafts | Aipan artwork, handicrafts, wooden items |
| Food Products | Mango candies, amla candies, spices, local foods |
| Textiles and Clothing | Woolen clothes, handwoven fabrics |
| Herbal and Wellness | Herbal items, medicinal products |
| Home Decor | Baskets, decor items, rangoli materials |
| Specialty Items | Pine needle rakhis, white honey, bay leaves, local items |
Market Channels:
1. Saras Centres
- 17 retail outlets across the state
- Dedicated spaces for SHG products
2. Railway Stations (One Station, One Product)
- Dehradun Railway Station
- Haridwar Railway Station
3. Traditional Melas
- State-wide coverage through seasonal fairs
- High footfall events ensure good sales
4. “House of Himalayas” Brand
- Umbrella brand for 35 high-quality products
- Plans for exporting to international markets
5. Online Presence
- Website for the “House of Himalayas” brand launched
- Digital marketing for global reach
Sales Achievements:
- Stalls Set Up: 27,000+ stalls across various events
- Total Sales: Rs 7 crore+ across all events
- Block-Level Sales (2023-24): Rs 3.18 crore through 1,428 stalls
- Saras Mela Sales: Rs 5.5 crore through approximately 2,000 stalls
Application Process
Applying for the Mukhyamantri Sashakt Behna Utsav Yojana is a straightforward process. The government has simplified the application procedure to ensure maximum participation from women SHGs.
Step-by-Step Online Application Process:
Step 1: Visit the official Women Empowerment & Child Development Department website: https://wecd.uk.gov.in/
Step 2: Navigate to the “Schemes/Programmes” tab
Step 3: Select “State Government Scheme” from the options
Step 4: Choose the “Mukhyamantri Sashakt Behna Utsav Yojana” from the list
Step 5: Download the application form
Step 6: Fill in all details carefully (Name, SHG details, products, location, etc.)
Step 7: Upload required documents (see document list below)
Step 8: Upload recent passport size photographs
Step 9: Review all details and submit the form
Required Documents:
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| SHG Registration Certificate | Proof of membership in a self-help group |
| Aadhaar Card | Identity verification |
| Residence Certificate | Proof of Uttarakhand residency |
| Product Details | Description of products manufactured |
| Bank Account Details | For any financial assistance or payments |
| Passport Size Photograph | For identification and records |
Offline Application:
Women who cannot access the online portal can:
- Visit their nearest Block Development Office
- Contact the District Programme Management Unit
- Visit the Women Empowerment and Child Development Office
- Seek assistance from Anganwadi centres or local SHG federations
Helpline Support:
For any queries or application issues:
- Helpline Number: 135-2775814 (Women Empowerment & Child Development Department)
Financial Benefits and Support
The Mukhyamantri Sashakt Behna Utsav Yojana provides comprehensive financial support to women SHGs through direct earnings from product sales.
Direct Earnings from Sales:
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Monthly Income | ₹7,000-8,000 per woman |
| Total Sales (Overall) | ₹7 crore+ from 27,000 stalls |
| Block-Level Sales | ₹3.18 crore from 1,428 stalls |
| Saras Mela Sales | ₹5.5 crore from 2,000 stalls |
Support Infrastructure (Funded by Government):
| Infrastructure | Number | Financial Support |
|---|---|---|
| Growth Centers | 49 | Processing and marketing support |
| Nano Packaging Units | 33 | Packaging cost support |
| Saras Centres | 17 | Market space provided free of cost |
| Bakery Units | 8 | Equipment and setup support |
| State Marketing Centres | 3 | Strategic marketing funding |
Indirect Financial Benefits:
1. No Rental Costs
- Stalls are provided free of cost at exhibitions and melas
- Product display space without financial burden
2. Training Support
- Business skill training provided free of cost
- Legal and licensing support
- Investment assistance for scaling businesses
3. Market Linkages
- Connections to global markets through “House of Himalayas” brand
- Export opportunities in the pipeline
4. Credit Access
- Loans through bank linkages for expansion
- Self-help group credit system
Lakhpati Didi Achievement:
- 1.63 lakh+ women in Uttarakhand have achieved Lakhpati Didi status (earning ₹1 lakh+ annually)
- A significant achievement enabled by schemes like this
Related Schemes and Convergence
The Mukhyamantri Sashakt Behna Utsav Yojana works in convergence with several other government schemes to create a comprehensive ecosystem for women’s empowerment.
Key Related Schemes:
| Scheme | Relevance |
|---|---|
| Mukhyamantri Udyamshala Yojana | Incubation facilities for 15,000+ entrepreneurs, SHGs, and Lakhpati Didis |
| Mukhyamantri Mahila Self-Help Group Empowerment Scheme | Holistic support for SHGs |
| Lakhpati Didi Yojana | Helping women achieve ₹1 lakh+ annual income |
| National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) | 68,000 SHGs and 5 lakh women members |
| House of Himalayas | Umbrella brand for global marketing |
Mukhyamantri Udyamshala Yojana Benefits:
- Business skill training
- Legal and licensing support
- Co-working spaces
- Investment assistance
- Marketing network connecting local to global
One Station, One Product:
- Special centres at Dehradun and Haridwar railway stations
- Dedicated display and sales opportunities for SHG products
- Helps tap into tourist and traveler demand
Convergence Impact:
| Aspect | Impact |
|---|---|
| Reach | 5 lakh women through 68,000 SHGs |
| Employment | Creates sustainable livelihood opportunities |
| Skill Development | Training and skill upgradation for rural women |
| Market Access | Local to global through multiple channels |
Progress and Achievements Update
The Mukhyamantri Sashakt Behna Utsav Yojana has achieved remarkable progress since its launch in August 2023, with significant milestones across various parameters.
Key Achievements:
| Parameter | Status | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Scheme Launch | 24th August 2023 | |
| Beneficiaries | 40,000+ women | |
| SHGs in Uttarakhand | 68,000 groups | |
| Women Associated with SHGs | 5 lakh women | |
| Total Stalls | 27,000+ stalls | |
| Total Sales | ₹7 crore+ | |
| Block-Level Sales (Aug 2023-Jun 2024) | ₹3.18 crore from 1,428 stalls | |
| Saras Mela Sales | ₹5.5 crore from 2,000 stalls | |
| Lakhpati Didis | 1.63 lakh+ women |
Recent Developments (2025):
August 2025:
- CM honoured women SHGs doing commendable work under the scheme
- Mascot and logo launched for Mukhyamantri Udyamshala Scheme
- New product line and website for “House of Himalayas” launched
October 2025:
- 12 economic activities under NRLM launched worth ₹1.20 crore
- Foundation laid for 10 additional activities worth ₹1 crore
- “Rising Tehri – Physics Wala Online Coaching Classes” launched for youth
Product Success Stories:
| Product | Recognition |
|---|---|
| Pine Needle Rakhi | Appreciation from SSB and ITBP |
| Mango and Amla Candies | Strong demand in local markets |
| Spices and Local Foods | Popular among tourists and locals |
| Aipan Artwork | Cultural recognition and appreciation |
Employment Generated:
- Women earning ₹7,000-8,000 per month
- Marked improvement in standard of living
- Reduced dependency on traditional income sources
Important Links and Official Resources
Having access to correct official resources is crucial for successful application and status tracking. Here are all the essential links, helpline numbers, and official portals that visitors need to navigate the Mukhyamantri Sashakt Behna Utsav Yojana effectively.
Official Websites:
| Portal Name | URL | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Women Empowerment & Child Development, Uttarakhand | https://wecd.uk.gov.in/ | Main portal for scheme details and application |
| Uttarakhand Government Portal | https://uk.gov.in/ | State government information |
Helpline Numbers:
| Service | Number |
|---|---|
| Women Empowerment & Child Development Helpline | 135-2775814 |
Important Government Notifications:
| Document | Relevance |
|---|---|
| Scheme Guidelines (August 2023) | Scheme approval notification by CM |
| PMKVY Restructuring Notification | Central skill development scheme details |
| PIB Press Releases | Official government announcements |
Latest Press Releases:
| Date | Event | Source |
|---|---|---|
| October 2025 | CM launches 12 economic initiatives under NRLM | ANI News |
| August 2025 | CM honours SHGs, launches mascot & logo | Pioneer Edge |
| August 2023 | Scheme approval by CM | Drishti IAS |
Success Story Resources:
- Exhibition photos available on WECD website
- Product catalog on “House of Himalayas” website
- SHG success stories on state rural livelihood mission portal
Additional Resources:
- National Rural Livelihood Mission: https://nrlm.gov.in/
- Uttarakhand Rural Livelihood Mission: State-level implementation portal
- Saras Aajeevika Mela: Regular event updates
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Mukhyamantri Sashakt Behna Utsav Yojana?
The Mukhyamantri Sashakt Behna Utsav Yojana is a women empowerment scheme launched by the Uttarakhand Government on 24th August 2023. It provides women self-help groups with a platform to showcase and sell their products at exhibitions organized at block-level in public places . The scheme has enabled 40,000+ women to earn sustainable incomes, with total sales of over ₹7 crore .
Who is eligible for the scheme?
Women who are members of active Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in Uttarakhand are eligible. Currently, 68,000 SHGs with 5 lakh women members are operating in the state . Women entrepreneurs making local products can also apply. The scheme is implemented by the Women Empowerment and Child Development Department .
How can I apply for the Mukhyamantri Sashakt Behna Utsav Yojana?
Visit the official WECD website https://wecd.uk.gov.in/, go to Schemes/Programmes, select State Government Scheme, choose Mukhyamantri Sashakt Behna Utsav Yojana, download and fill the form, and upload required documents . For offline help, contact the helpline number 135-2775814 .
What products can I sell under the scheme?
Women can sell a variety of local products including traditional crafts like Aipan artwork, food products like mango and amla candies and spices, textiles and woolen clothes, herbal items, home decor items, and specialty items like pine needle rakhis, white honey, and bay leaves . Currently, 35 high-quality products are available under the “House of Himalayas” brand .
What financial benefits do I get?
Women earn directly from product sales at exhibitions and melas, with monthly incomes of ₹7,000-8,000 . Total sales of ₹7 crore have been achieved through 27,000 stalls . The state also provides free stall space, training support, and marketing infrastructure including 49 Growth Centers and 17 Saras Centres .
What is the “House of Himalayas” brand?
“House of Himalayas” is an umbrella brand created to give global recognition to local products made by women SHGs . Currently, 35 high-quality products are being sold under this brand, with plans for exports to other countries soon. The brand supports the “Vocal for Local” and “Local to Global” initiatives .
How successful has the scheme been?
The scheme has been highly successful with 27,000+ stalls set up, sales of ₹7 crore+ achieved, and 40,000+ women directly benefiting . Over 1.63 lakh women have achieved “Lakhpati Didi” status . Products like pine needle rakhis from Maa Purnagiri SHG are receiving appreciation from security agencies .
Can I set up stalls in traditional melas?
Yes, the scheme allows women SHGs to set up stalls at traditional fairs and melas across the state . Special stalls are also set up at the Secretariat in Dehradun and at Dehradun and Haridwar railway stations under the “One Station, One Product” scheme . Block-level stalls are organized between the 25th and 30th of each month .
What is the role of the Mukhyamantri Udyamshala Yojana?
The Mukhyamantri Udyamshala Yojana provides incubation facilities to over 15,000 entrepreneurs, SHGs, and Lakhpati Didis over three years . It offers business skill training, legal and licensing support, co-working spaces, investment assistance, and a marketing network connecting local products to global markets .
How do I check the status of my application?
You can check your application status by visiting the official WECD website https://wecd.uk.gov.in/ and navigating to the scheme section. For any issues, you can also contact the helpline number 135-2775814 or visit your nearest Block Development Office.