Women-Led Enterprises Key to Economic Growth, Says CM Chandrababu Naidu

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Sunday stressed that empowering women as entrepreneurs is essential for strengthening the state’s economy and ensuring sustainable development. He said the government aims to encourage women from every household to step forward and build successful businesses.

Addressing the International Women’s Day celebrations held at the Amaravati Parade Grounds , the Chief Minister described women as symbols of hard work, compassion, and sacrifice , adding that societies which respect and empower women achieve real progress. He conveyed greetings to women across the country and reiterated the state government’s commitment to expanding economic opportunities for them.

Highlighting the state’s initiatives to promote women entrepreneurship , the Chief Minister said the government had earlier set a target of creating one lakh women entrepreneurs . However, the number has already exceeded expectations, with over 1.1 lakh women currently running micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across the state. He noted that around 34,000 businesses in urban areas are being led by women, describing the trend as an encouraging sign of growing economic participation.

Building on this progress, the government has now set an ambitious goal of creating five lakh new women entrepreneurs in the coming year , aiming to expand women-led businesses across both urban and rural regions.

The Chief Minister also highlighted the significant role of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in promoting financial independence among women. Andhra Pradesh currently has about 8.3 lakh SHGs , bringing together nearly 84 lakh members . He said women naturally possess strong financial management skills , pointing out that those who effectively manage household budgets are capable of excelling in larger financial and business responsibilities.

To strengthen marketing opportunities for products made by women’s groups, the state government plans to expand the ‘Swayam’ brand , which will help SHG products reach wider national and international markets.

The Chief Minister also emphasized the need for greater political representation for women , stating that 33 percent reservation in legislatures would ensure better participation in governance.

On the issue of safety, he asserted that the government would adopt a strict approach against crimes targeting women , warning that those who harass women would face strong action. Criticizing the previous administration, he alleged that issues such as ganja networks and blade gangs had created insecurity for women in the past.

Expressing his vision, the Chief Minister said his aspiration is to see every girl in the state grow into an entrepreneur , contributing to both family prosperity and the state’s economic growth.