Gujarat's Garib Kalyan schemes: Tale of Empowerment and Resilience

Sep 25, 2024

The Gujarat government’s Garib Kalyan or welfare schemes for the underprivileged have proven to be transformative, empowering countless Gujaratis by providing them with the tools they need to uplift their lives and improve their economic circumstances. One such success story is Anil Ghanshyambhai Patil, a resident of Surat. Previously reliant on renting a rickshaw, Patil received financial assistance of ₹2 lakhs through the Garib Kalyan Mela. This enabled him to purchase his own rickshaw, providing him with a more sustainable livelihood and a sense of financial independence. Women have also been significantly impacted by the Garib Kalyan Mela. Asha Jadav, a snack stall owner from Surat, faced financial hardship during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the government's scheme provided her with vital financial support, allowing her to rebuild her business and support her family. Another inspiring story is that of Bhagwati Lal, a tea seller from Ahmedabad. With the help of Mudra Loans totaling ₹30,000, he was able to overcome financial challenges and continue operating his business. He expresses gratitude for the scheme, stating that it helped him break free from poverty and build a better future. The 14th edition of the Garib Kalyan Mela is scheduled to take place on September 27. Over the past 13 editions, the initiative has benefited thousands of individuals across Gujarat, with a total assistance of over ₹36,800 crores. This year, the event is expected to distribute financial aid of around ₹125 crores to over 90,000 beneficiaries.