True Empowerment Lies in Hand-Holding, Not Handouts: VP Dhankhar

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 13th May: Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar o Tuesday stressed that real empowerment stems from equipping individuals with tools for self-reliance rather than offering short-term freebies. Interacting with members of Self Help Groups (SHGs) from Meghalaya’s Garo, Khasi, and Jaintia Hills at an event in New Delhi, the Vice-President said, “To empower the pocket of a person by freebies is not true empowerment. True empowerment is that you hand-hold the person so they empower themselves.”

Calling the North East the “jewel of India”, Dhankhar praised the region’s transformation under the Centre’s ‘Look East, Act East’ policy. He noted that Meghalaya is emerging as a tourism haven, and holds immense promise in sectors like mining, IT, and services.

Highlighting Meghalaya’s economic progress, the Vice-President said the state’s Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) has risen by 13% year-on-year, projecting a target of ₹66,000 crore and aiming to become a $10 billion economy by 2028. “Congratulations to the Chief Minister for his deep commitment to improve the economy of the state,” he added.

Applauding the role of visionary governance, Dhankhar said, “It is the visionary leadership that catalyzes officials to act in the right direction. Fortunately, this is happening under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership for the past decade.” He credited the government’s reforms for India’s global recognition in infrastructure, economy, and technology.

Speaking on the strength of cultural heritage, Dhankhar affirmed, “Our tribal culture is resplendent; it is our wealth.” He further underscored the importance of women’s participation in development, stating, “Balanced economic development and societal growth happen when women come forward.”

The Vice-President also welcomed the rise in revolving funds and SHG participation, noting a tenfold increase as a testament to Meghalaya’s inclusive development journey.